Larry Thompson
Drum Instructor

The Academy of Music and Art & Gainesville Guitar Academy welcomes long-time Gainesville resident Larry Thompson as drum instructor. Mr. Thompson brings more than 35 years of professional drumming experience to our program, which includes jazz, blues, rock and country techniques.

A graduate of Gainesville High School, he was involved in marching,symphonic and jazz bands, including the Santa Fe College Jazz Band. After several years touring in a full-time rock band, he completed his formal training in Orlando, graduating from the University of Central Florida in 1983 as a member of the UCF Jazz Lab Band. He continued his musical development in various variety show bands in the burgeoning tourist/convention circuit before returning to Gainesville in 1985.

Larry became involved in classic blues bands including touring stints with the Kenny Neal Band as well as Little Mike and the Tornadoes, who traveled extensively throughout Florida. As a long-time member of local acts, The Barry Sides Band and Lightnin' Harpo, he performed in opening concerts for such artists as B.B. King, Bob Dylan, George Thorogood and Johnny Winter.

He is currently working in a variety of classic rock and original bands in Gainesville, including The Killer B's, The Flying Gypsies and The Righteous Kind. He also has extensive recording experience at Gainesville's Mirror Image, Goldentone, Taylor Made and Greg Doles studios.

Larry is excited to bring his conceptual, drummer-friendly approach to music to beginners, intermediate and advanced students of all ages.