Joe Morin

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about Joe

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.

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

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