“Virtual lessons with Johnny have exceeded my expectations. I can tell he spends time outside of our lessons to think about ways to help me learn. He lays out a plan when we start each lesson and afterward provides a summary of what we worked on along with helpful practice materials.”

-Andrew B

“Johnny Wicker was an amazing drum instructor. His patience, knowledge, and positive attitude most definitely made learning effective and fun. He helped me to achieve more than I thought possible. Johnny’s friendly personality and genuine enthusiasm for drumming made each lesson a pleasure. I would highly recommend him as an instructor to anyone looking to improve their drumming skills.”

-Joseph B

“It has been a pleasure learning from Johnny on how to drum, since the beginning he gave me great advice on looking for a drum set and allowed me to receive a trial class before starting the actual class which I think is very important. He went over the structure, expectations, and reviewed the material with me so I could get an idea of what I was going to get out of it. I am very satisfied with taking lessons with him, he has been very flexible in rescheduling when things come up and always makes sure I am comfortable in moving onto new material. I enjoy talking about my music journey with him and find him very inspirational, I would definitely recommend his classes!”

-Kamilah G

“Johnny is very informative, knowledgeable, and patient. Easy to work with!”

-Cheryl W

“Great experience so far! Very responsive and gives great advice on equipment. Johnny met me at my level, which was super beginner. Great for an adult learner like me.”

-Brianna B

“I am 67 years old and fulfilling a lifelong dream of leaning to play drum set. I love it! And smile and laugh for joy when I practice. I started with another instructor and noticed that I didn’t want to practice and didn’t feel joyful when I played. Johnny opened the door to bring joy back and as a bonus, I am making much faster progress with him. I am grateful to have found him.”

-Gerriann J

“I would have chosen all five of the reasons I like working with Johnny. I would therefore add he's punctual and his knowledge and guidance shows he really knows the guitar. He's professional, responsive and he's a quality person. He listens and is able to appreciate my skill level, but challenge me in ways that really have helped me to grow, more than I thought in such a short amount of time. He's a great coach/teacher!”

-Kathy H

“Johnny is a highly professional and responsive teacher who consistently demonstrates meticulous attention to detail. He not only excels as a subject matter expert but also inspires his students to achieve their best. He consistently goes above and beyond to create a positive learning environment and instill a love for learning in his students. Johnny's attention to detail ensures that his instructional materials and assessments are well-designed and effective. His commitment to student success is truly inspiring. In summary, Johnny's professionalism, responsiveness, attention to detail, and ability to inspire students make him an exceptional teacher who positively impacts the learning journey of his students.”

-Denis D

“Johnny is great to work with - he's patient, knowledgeable and helps keep the learning process simple.”

-Seth M

“WOW! I am so impressed with Johnny's Lessons! He is so patient with me and so encouraging to me. He lets me choose some of my style of music to work on but also encourages me to try new things to keep me progressing. I am thoroughly happy with his help. I give him the highest rating. Thanks!”

-Andrea M

“My skills have improved so much in just a few lessons. Johnny is very knowledgeable, and calm. Makes you feel there will not be obstacles to overcome. Very skilled to offer advice or alternative technique to overcome being stuck. As simple as a way to count the beats without messing up the actual stroke. Listens and offers feedback based on what the student is experiencing. Always looking forward to his next class. Only teacher I know that sends a recap of every lesson along with homework.”

-Philippe J

“Mr. Wicker provides excellent lessons, with knowledgeable insight on Zoom and how to utilize it’s resources to have the best experience online. Mr. Wicker’s knowledge of learning tools and learning pathways for individual students will have you learning new things in no time. Would recommend even advanced musicians to learn about his resources to better themselves.”

-Jake H

“I really enjoy working with Johnny! He's professional, experienced and easy to work with. He is also very accommodating and caters the lessons to your individual needs.”

-Dee D

“I had no prior guitar knowledge so Johnny quickly educated me and we jumped right in learning a melody of my choice. He is patient and encouraging. I appreciate the lesson recap and his suggestions on areas to practice to keep progressing. Thanks Johnny.”

-Meagan D

“Other than being close friends with Johnny for a long time, he’s been an inspiration to perform and work with as he has such an attention to detail. He’s quite possibly the most well-rounded musician I know.”

- Travis Denton, Hunter’s Travesty and Co-worker at School of Rock

“As a Bass player, one knows how important it is to have a good percussionist sitting behind you at the gig! I can honestly say that you have one of the best in the business if you look back and see Johnny Wicker sitting on that throne behind his drum kit! I have had the pleasure, and, what I consider an honor to watch Johnny, from a young age, grow and develop into a superb musician. He is so well rounded. I can’t say enough about his ability. His timing is impeccable, his awareness and anticipation is uncanny, and his taste and execution is a sight to behold! When you get into the pocket with Johnny, you don’t want it to end. All this talent in such a nice guy too!! As you can tell, I really love, not only performing with this guy, but Johnny as a person. I would put him up against anyone in both categories!!”

-Gene Johnston, Continental Divide and The Relics

“Johnny is reliable, just like the time he keeps. He is professional and is great addition to any ensemble you're looking to keep. He's been in the scene for years and has worked with the best! Actually, he is the best!”

-George Banda, Solo Artsist

Live Performance and Studio

If you are looking for the best pocket and groove drummer in Charlotte look no further. Johnnys versatile abilities to play jazz, rock and roll, hip-hop and everything in-between is unparalleled. Johnny is the epitome of a session drummer.

— Donovan Lujan Wicked Powers, Nonsense Botany

“Johnny Wicker worked for me for over 10 years, teaching and running a music program of over 200 students. In addition to being one of the top musicians in Charlotte, he’s patient, focused, fun, kind and extremely dependable to work with. There isn’t an instrument Johnny can’t pick up, or a style of music he can’t play..but WOW...when he gets behind a kit, his lifetime of experience and love for the stage lights up a room!”

-Jill Livick, Director of Operations at School of Rock

“Twenty years ago when Johnny was 13 he played drums for his Dad and myself and I knew then he had a great career in music ahead of him. What makes Johnny a great drummer is his attitude and his desire to create the right groove for a song. It’s his positive attitude and enthusiasm that give him an edge as he is always interested in listening and learning new ideas, styles and techniques and then trying them out. His creative skills set him apart from most drummers as his music DNA is very diverse rooted in jazz, American roots rhythms, ska-reggae, country, classic and current rock, soul and R&B. Another important facet of Johnny’s skills evolves from his teaching career having taught many students at local School of Rock here in Charlotte. The newest and most exciting adventure for Johnny lie in his songwriting and recording skills as you can see for yourself when you check out youtube, i-Tunes, Spotify, and CD Baby. For consultation whether songwriting or recording, music lessons, or if you need a great band or drummer reach out to Johnny Wicker for results!!!”

— Sandy Bell, Keys player with The Relics and Jazzology

“Johnny Wicker has been my partner in music for almost 15 years, and also my closest and dearest friend. He is an extremely talented multi instrumentalist, vocalist, and songwriter who is well versed in nearly all musical styles; Seriously, the guy can play the phone book. His professionalism and stage etiquette are second to none. If you are looking for a fill-in drummer or percussionist with the ability to also contribute lead and background vocals Johnny is your guy.”

-Bradley Parks , Wicked Powers and The Parks Brothers

“Johnny is one of my favorite drummers to play with for many reasons. On a gig he communicates and knows how to go with the flow but also play with a commanding presence. He pays attention to details, plays with great feel and dynamics, is versatile, and makes you feel comfortable in the groove. I look forward to the next time we get a chance to play music together.”

— Paul Agee, Parks Brothers, Wicked Powers, Hunter’s Travesty and The Smokin’ J’s

“Johnny’s combination of positive attitude, dedication to craft, and attention to detail is a rare find. His pocket is deep, he knows when to lay back and when to turn on the flash, and the genuine joy he exudes onstage is infectious. (Behind the kit or on any instrument I’ve seen him play) I really can’t say enough about him as a friend, musician and collaborator.”

-John Harrell, Hectorina, Dinner Rabbit and Music Director at School of Rock Charlotte