Joe Morin is an American born, New York native, professional musician living in Nashville, TN. He majored in music education at ORU before his band, Edison Glass, signed with EMI and released two records and toured throughout the continental US.

Joe has traveled around the world performing, and teaching drum lessons, and clinics. He has performed and recorded with a variety of artists including Phil Joel, Austin Plaine, Paper Route, The Working Title, Violents and Monica Martin and many others. Joe plays in the indie rock band, Iron Range, who is currently working on a record and playing in the Nashville area.

Joe continues to study drums and has worked with some of the world’s greatest teachers, including Dom Famularo, Chester Thompson, Frank Mediate and Pete Abbott.

Joe’s Teaching Philosophy: “Everyone should learn to express themselves through music. And everyone CAN learn drums. It’s all about having fun. If you apply yourself diligently, and let the music change you, you will grow in ways you could never expect. This whole process will be your art.”

Why are you passionate about teaching and mentoring?
The fact that I can be a part of someone’s musical journey and development is really meaningful to me. I learned piano and drums at a young age, and I’ve continued to study with some amazing teachers to this day. It is unbelievably cool that we can inspire each other and experience the joy of picking up an instrument, and connect with a band and an audience.

What causes are you passionate about?
“I support an organization called Watoto, who rescues and adopts orphans in in Uganda. I was once able to travel there to teach drums at one of their summer music programs. It was pretty amazing!”

What’s your favorite local spot?
“I’m a big fan of the Pho at Vui”s Kitchen.”

What type of student will excel the most under your mentorship?
“If you are passionate about drumming and music then we will get along great. I LOVE teaching technique and groove because they bring confidence and a sense of “voice” that ultimately leads to artistic freedom on the instrument to the student. And THAT is FUN!”

If you could meet one author, performer who would it be and what would you ask them?
“It be great to meet the drummer Steve Gadd (I’ve had recurring dreams about this) and ask him to riff on his thoughts about drumming and life.”

What has been the highlight of your professional career?
“I’d say seeing my name pop up DRUM Magazine, and Modern Drummer Magazine was a pretty huge highlight. And also sharing the stage with so many amazing bands, and musicians over the years. Back in the day my old band, Edison Glass, opened up for Paramore, Phantom Planet and All American Rejects at a show in Oklahoma; definitely a spotlight moment!”

Salty Treat: Chips

Sweet Treat: Reese’s anything

Fast Food Restaurant: Chic fil a

Sit Down Restaurant: Pelato

Coffee Drink: Cold brew

Movie/Show: Lost & The Office

Place to Shop: Vans

Candle: Love em all!

Musician/Band: Jeff Buckley, The Police, Miles Davis, The Beatles

Travel Destination: New York

I love to receive gift cards from: Starbucks, Target, Gas station