Drum Lessons

Ryu Kodama is a Sydney-based drummer and educator with an international background in jazz performance and music education.

Born in Tokyo and raised in Auckland (NZ), Ryu studied under legendary jazz drummer Frank Gibson Jr. before completing his Honours degree in Jazz Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music under Dr. Simon Barker.

Recognised early for his musicianship, Ryu received multiple awards at the Tauranga National Youth Jazz Competitions and performed with the New Zealand Youth Jazz Orchestra alongside Dick Oatts from the Village Vanguard Big Band.

Having studied with many world-class educators throughout his musical journey, Ryu brings a unique and well-rounded teaching approach to his students — one that blends the discipline of formal training with the creativity of real-world performance.

Now active across Sydney’s music scene, Ryu performs with a variety of contemporary artists while offering private drum tuition for students of all ages and experience levels. He currently travels to his students, providing convenient in-home lessons that focus on building confidence, rhythmic strength, and musical awareness while helping each student discover their own sound and enjoyment in music.

Achievements/Qualifications:

First Class Hons Sydney Conservatorium of Music (2021)
Tauranga (NZ) National Youth Jazz Competition Best Musician (2016)
Tauranga (NZ) National Youth Jazz Competition Best Drummer (2016 2015)
First prize at Merimbula Jazz Quest (2017)
Anthony and Sharon Lee Foundation Jazz Scholarship (2018)
The Basil & Murial Hooper Scholarship (2017)
Lynfield College Arts & Culture Scholarship (2016)
Lynfield College DUX ARTIUM (2016)