Learn from the Best: Our Private Lesson Instructors
At Groove, Inc., our private lesson instructors bring over 50 years of collective teaching experience, combining world-class percussion expertise with a genuine passion for nurturing young talent. Each instructor has been carefully selected not just for their impressive credentials, but for their ability to connect with students of all ages and skill levels.
What truly sets our teaching team apart is their infectious love for both percussion and working with young people. They create a supportive, inspiring environment where students don’t just improve their drumming – they develop confidence, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
Getting Started is Easy
Ready to begin your child’s private lesson journey? Simply contact your preferred instructor directly using the information below. Each instructor’s specialties, pricing, and contact details are listed to help you find the perfect match for your student’s needs and goals.
Need Help Choosing?
Not sure which instructor is the best fit? Contact Pete Hansen for personalized guidance in selecting the right teacher for your student. We also have talented junior instructors available at a lower cost and more flexible schedules – Pete can introduce you to these emerging educators who bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to their teaching.
Pete Hansen
Pete Hansen has taught in the tri-state area over the 30 years and has produced over 50 students who have marched in top DCI groups around the nation. He has also instructed and written for over 13 competitive percussion programs including Sioux Falls Lincoln and Pella Iowa HS. Over the last 30 years he has instructed over 3000 students through Groove Inc, various high schools, and his private drum studio.
This year I will be offering lessons on the following:
- All marching percussion instruments
- Snare, Timpani and Mallet solos for All State Band, both at the Middle school and High School levels
- Drum set, both for school groups and for All State Jazz
Lessons will be at the Sioux Empire Fairgrounds in the Armory building, which is the official home for Groove Inc, located at 100 N Lyons Blvd. I will give lessons Monday through Friday from 4pm to 10pm.
If anyone has comments or questions now or during the year, please stop in or contact me any time at 605-376-9581. Text is always fastest communication.
Spencer Smith
Spencer is a dedicated percussionist and educator with a strong background in both performance and leadership. He served as a two-year section leader at the University of Oklahoma, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and team development. Before joining the instructional staff, Spencer spent five years as a member of Groove, gaining valuable experience performing with ensembles such as Cadets, Slam, Impact, and Pursuit.
Currently, Spencer is an active staff member with the Lincoln High School Marching Band, where he brings his passion for percussion and education to the next generation of performers. His diverse experience and leadership skills make him a valuable asset to any program he’s part of.
Mason Endsley
Born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mason serves as the Battery Coordinator for Brandon Valley High School (Brandon, SD), including their WGI Scholastic winter drumline, Brandon Valley Indoor. He is also on staff with Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls, SD), as well as Jefferson High School (Sioux Falls, SD), Pipestone High School (Pipestone, MN). In addition, Mason is an active music and visual clinician and consultant for indoor and fall marching ensembles across South Dakota, Minnesota, and northwest Iowa.
Mason aged out in 2025, concluding his competitive marching career as a four-year member of Minneapolis-based MBI Indoor Percussion (WGI Independent World Class). He also marched with River City Rhythm Drum & Bugle Corps.
Lessons available online or in-person (Sioux Falls, SD) and surrounding areas.
Reach out of availability.
