Walnut Street Music Academy - Holden, Massachusetts

Lori J.

Our son has been taking private drum lessons from Doug Moore at the Walnut Street Music Academy for over 6 years. Through Doug, he has learned how to read music, and appreciate a variety of different styles of music. He has had the opportunity to participate in several of the bands that Doug has organized, as well as several opportunities to perform at the Holden Band Stand and at the annual Paxton Summer Jams. Doug has been a great mentor and friend to our son, and he always looks forward to seeing Doug for his lessons. Doug is an amazing artist, and we are grateful for how much he has helped our son's musical talent grow through his teachings.

Jeffrey P. ?.

As stated in his bio, yes Doug is an accomplished teacher, I certainly wouldn’t be the musician/guitar player I am today without his instruction, right down to his RED pen and wooden pointer 😊 but more meaningful to me personally he’s a MENTOR. His resume includes the fact not only is he a current performer in two arrangements along with maintaining a successful Sounds of the Sixties solo act, his past accomplishments earn him much respect from me….this guy was a titan in the music scene in Worcester/Central Mass in the 80’s into the 90’s ( anybody remember the Plantation Club!) having been in top notch acts at the time such as Tornado Alley, Wilbur + The Dukes and Big Dawg to name a few. Doug’s students range from elementary school age kids up to old geezers like myself and we all share the bonus of being part of the WSMA’s Paxton Summer Jam every June where students thru workshops apply their learned talents on stage at a day long event he’s been organizing for over 30 yrs! Here’s me during our Tribute to the Three Kings performance a couple yrs ago as my concentration with Doug is the blues. Consider checking out this fine gentleman to put you and yours on the musical track you desire….he’ll get you there! Thx Doug and see you next week for another productive lesson!

Lisa L.

My son took guitar lessons from Doug for about 7 years. He learned everything from reading music, singing, to blues, rock, and how to play in a band. He had so much fun over the years and has experiences and skills to remember for a lifetime. Doug is a professional who makes learning/playing music fun!

Joe B.

Really can't recommend Doug more!

We've been sending both our boys there ... 10 and 12 at the moment ... for drum and guitar lessons, and we couldn't be happier. Our boys love the experience and are clearly becoming more and more confident in their abilities.

It's also important to note that Doug's instruction is multifaceted. His students have the freedom to choose songs they enjoy and are interested in, but he teaches them the notes/chords/scales so they can both listen and read the music. It truly is a comprehensive education that's fun and engaging for our kids. Again, can't say enough about our wonderful experience with Walnut Street Music Academy!

Paul G.

Doug is an excellent musician and teacher - he spent several years helping my son and his band develop into great musicians. I would recommend him for lessons - whether just starting out or someone who needs to refine their skills. Doug gets an A+

PLANET O. D.

Our son took lessons with Doug for many years- He developed not only skill in our son who plays drums but confidence and self-esteem. He is patient, kind and extremely talented. Our son hopes to play professionally one day and if he does Doug definitely played a large role in this dream. Can't say enough about how great this experience was for our son . Highly recommend!!!

Laura G.

Doug is an extraordinary teacher and musician. Our son is talented, but what Doug has accomplished with him has been amazing. The additional opportunities he provides for his students in terms of working and performing in groups is absolutely invaluable as well. Doug is able to capitalize on the interests of his students to help them develop all of the skills they need to be well-rounded musicians. His teaching of music theory through both direct and indirect methods (e.g., using multiple songs to demonstrate the same theory concepts) is genius and effortless for students to pick up. He genuinely cares about the development of his students' talents and love for music and their instruments. Our son has become a confident performer on both his electric and acoustic guitars. He has also developed confidence with singing while he plays. With Doug's guidance, he made the honors jazz band at Wachusett as a freshman, and he's crushing it! He's also joined a student-led group that performs in and outside of school. Doug has been such a wonderful influence in our son's life. We can't recommend him highly enough!

Jonathan S.

Doug is a great person and a tremendous teacher who tailors lessons to songs the student is interested in. What really sets him apart from other teachers is that he offers opportunities to for students to play together and learn the joy of making music collectively and publicly. His events with student bands are always really well attended and a next level learning experience. My highest recommendation!