About leadwithrhythm

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John Bertrand has been immersed in the world of rhythm and percussion for as long as he can remember. His drumming journey began early, and by the age of 17, he was already teaching his first student at the suggestion of his private music mentor, Glenn Celgia of the Crane School of Music. Since then, John has dedicated himself to sharing the joy and power of drumming with his community in New Hartford, NY, where he continues to teach privately today.

While pursuing his education at Syracuse University, John performed with the prestigious Syracuse University Conservatory Percussion Ensemble, further honing his craft. Over the years, he has worked with students ranging from ages 5 to 50, both individually and in group settings. His passion for uniting people through rhythm led him to collaborate with schools, where he created percussion ensembles designed to bring drummers and non-drummers alike together. These ensembles not only foster musical creativity but also build a sense of connection through the primal, energizing experience of group drumming.

In addition to his work as a private music instructor, John has over 20 years of classroom teaching experience at the high school level, where he has inspired thousands of students. His teaching goes far beyond the curriculum, as he focuses on building confidence, fostering connections, and encouraging teamwork among his students. John believes in using education as a platform to empower young minds, helping them discover their own potential and cultivate their leadership skills.

John’s academic achievements include earning a Master’s degree in Education with a focus on Adolescent Psychology, and he is currently pursuing an MBA in Human Resources and Organizational Behavior. His diverse background bridges the worlds of education, music, and organizational development, giving him a unique perspective on teaching and team-building.

John’s commitment to growth and learning extends to his craft as well. He has participated in master classes with renowned drummers Dom Famularo and Todd Sucherman and is a Certified Drum Circle Facilitator, trained by his mentor, the world-renowned Jim Donovan.

With over 35 years of experience as a private music instructor and more than two decades in the classroom, John’s mission is simple but powerful: to connect people through rhythm. In 2017, he founded Lead with Rhythm, a company built on the belief that everyone has a rhythm—whether as an individual, a couple, a team, or an organization. When that rhythm is discovered and embraced, extraordinary things can happen.