Dennis Palmer

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about Dennis

Dennis Palmer has been drumming for 25 years and has played professionally for a number of groups including Sweetwater Rose, Susan Benjey, Harlow and the Wager, Soular 7, The Solomon’s Porch Band, Rachel Harlow, Megan Santi, Lauren Maze, and Tom & Co. He was also in house bands backing Chris Vadala, Allen Vizzutti and Danny Gokey.

He grew up in Macon, Georgia, and left to pursue college and a music career. He has a Bachelor’s of Music in Performance from Valdosta State University.

He’s currently the first call drummer for The Circle Players theatre in Nashville and he’s also played with the Nashville Repertory Theatre, The Pull Tight Theatre, The Larry Keeton Theatre, and Imaginary Theatre Company. He’s on the worship team playing drums at Cross Point Church, Holy Trinity Community Church, and Fellowship Bible Church.

The highlight of his professional career to date was pretty recently when he played for “Chicago, The Musical” at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) in 2016.

“I love collaborating with other musicians and creating musical moments that make people smile,” Dennis says. That leads him to enjoy teaching as well, “because I love helping people learn something new. It’s exciting to see a student take what they learn and apply it in a whole new way!”

The student who will do well with Dennis is the one who likes to work hard and have fun. “I believe that a little hard work can pay off and be a lot of fun!”

Teaching Philosophy

I’m the guide and the student is the hero of their own story. I’m there to offer knowledge, wisdom, experience and motivation but their success is ultimately up to them.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?
“Talking to people inspires me to be creative. I very often walk away from conversations with a new idea about something. I also try to listen to new music and try to learn how a particular artist arrived where they are musically.”

What causes are you passionate about?
“I’m passionately pro-life. As the father of two amazing kids, I know what a blessing they are and little ones should be protected at all costs!”

What’s your favorite local spot to spend time at when you’re not working & what do you do there?
“I love spending time at home with my family but when I’m not doing that, I’m usually in downtown Nashville somewhere supporting one of my friends who are playing music at great venues we have here in town.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to?
“I grew up listening to a weird mix of 90’s alternative rock and 90’s Christian Music. I still listen to both but I’ve expanded my horizons A LOT over the years.”

If you could meet one author, performer who would it be and what would you ask them?
“C.S. Lewis, and I’d probably just give him a big ole hug.”

What is your favorite quote?
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”  – Teddy Roosevelt

Salty Treat: Chuy’s Creamy Jalapeño Dip

Sweet Treat: Cookies

Fast Food Restaurant: Zaxby’s

Sit Down Restaurant: Amerigo

Coffee Drink: A Cuban

Movie/Show: Dune (the new ones)

Place to Shop: Amazon

Candle: Anything smoky or woodsy

Musician/Band: Sting or Steely Dan

Travel Destination: Mexico

I love to receive gift cards from: Amazon

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator