Joe Morin

INSTRUMENTS

DrumsAdvanced

GENRES

CCMClassicalCountryGospelJazzPopRock

LANGUAGES

English

Mentor Mission Statement

My mission is to guide drummers of every age and ability toward their own unique musical goals—cultivating skill, creativity, discipline, and joy through an inspiring and encouraging mentoring environment.

about Joe

Joe Morin’s musical journey began at home. One of his earliest memories is sitting in the living room at around five years old, surrounded by his parents and brothers as they made music together. That sense of shared joy and connection left a lasting impression and continues to shape how Joe views music today.

Joe’s first formal instrument was piano, but everything changed the moment he sat behind a drum kit. The power, sound, and physicality of the drums immediately captured his attention. While the piano felt beautiful, the drums felt mighty, and that personal connection motivated him to pursue them seriously. Early inspiration came from his brother Clark and his dad, and later from a close friend, Joshua Silverberg, who helped Joe realize music could be more than a passion — it could be a meaningful life path.

Throughout his career, Joe has experienced many sides of the music world, working as a signed artist, sideman, educator, student, and in music retail. Each role brought new challenges, but the most significant was learning to believe in himself. Over time, he developed the discipline and resilience needed to grow while also protecting the joy that first drew him to music.

At ROOTS Academy, Joe loves watching students experience the moment when frustration turns into curiosity and confidence. His lessons blend essential drumming skills with music appreciation, helping students grow both as musicians and individuals.

Outside of ROOTS, Joe performs with Nashville artists, writes and produces music, and studies psychology with the goal of pursuing clinical counseling.

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!”

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 – Systems & Strategy Manager
Marta Palombo – Music Operations Coordinator
Kinsey Overdeer – Scheduling Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator