Who we are

A local collective of working musicians

Started as the Great Lake Drum Co in 2016, now teaching drums, guitar, bass and piano around Taupō, with piano lessons now also starting in Tūrangi. We partner with local primary, intermediate and secondary schools too, supporting and enhancing their own music programmes.

Meet the tutors

Ashley Pirie

Founder

Ashley is a seasoned multi-instrumentalist and the founder of Great Lake Music Co. A drummer since the age of 14, he adds over 9 years of experience mentoring and tutoring musicians through various schools and institutions. Ashley is driven by a passion for guiding the next generation and his commitment to artist development makes him a respected figure in the music community. He also fronts local band Fairly Obvious on vocals and guitar alongside fellow GLMC tutors Sam and Paris, opening the 2026 Greenstone Summer Concert in Taupo to a crowd of over 10,000. A co-founder of the band False Heights, Ashley has toured extensively and performed with artists such as Jackson Owens, Cornerstone Roots, and Dan Sharp at renowned festivals including Rhythm and Vines, Sziget (Hungary), and Glastonbury (UK).

Paris Takarangi

Drums & Piano Tutor

Paris is a dynamic drummer and pianist known for his technical precision and love for performance and teaching. He has played with bands like Hot Tub, The Den, Dan Sharp, False Heights and Sonorous, with a highlight performance at Soundsplash 2025. He draws on these experiences in every lesson with passion. Paris also holds down the drums in local band Fairly Obvious with fellow tutors Ashley and Sam, opening the 2026 Greenstone Summer Concert on the Taupo Amphitheatre stage. A respected figure in the local drum community, Paris is also celebrated for his impeccable piano playing and earned first place at Taupo's NZMSM Piano Competitions in 2021.

Sam Gale

Guitar, Bass & Band Mentoring

Sam is a passionate guitar tutor from sunny England with over 15 years of experience as a multi-instrumentalist, specialising in guitar and bass. With 2 years of full-time tutoring, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a love for the blues, drawing inspiration from the likes of John Mayer and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Sam is also a great band mentor, helping students compete in Rockquest and Bandquest, helping to bring confidence and value to every performance. Sam plays lead guitar in local band Fairly Obvious alongside fellow tutors Ashley and Paris, recording original material at Studio 11B in Mount Maunganui between shows. While contributing to the local music scene, he's worked with bands like False Heights, Ryan Orchard and the Harvest, and has been an opening act at the Summer Concert on multiple occasions.

Clay Drysdale

Drums Tutor

Clay is a 22-year-old drummer and music educator with a deep passion for rhythm and performance. He began drumming at age 12 and was actively involved in high school jazz bands, Rockquest competitions, and musical theatre. After earning a BA in Music and History from Victoria University and a Diploma of Teaching, he now teaches at Taupo Nui-a-Tia College and gives his after school time to us here at GLMC. Outside of the classroom, Clay performs in a local three-piece band Something In The Villa. Whether on stage or in school, he's dedicated to inspiring others through the joy of music, especially behind the kit.

Joe Dyson

Drums Tutor

Joe's musical journey began over 2 decades ago with the guitar, quickly expanding to include drums and eventually blossoming into a passion for all things music. Now a versatile multi-instrumentalist, he brings over 12 years of live performance and recording experience with him. Joe's past projects include bass and drums with Ryan Orchard & The Harvest and as a fill-in for various local bands such as the Blind Venetians. Outside of tutoring, he's a dedicated contributor to the local music scene, running an open mic night that supports local and international talent. Now in his third year with GLMC, Joe shares his energetic, hard-hitting drumming style and infectious enthusiasm with our next generation of drummers.

Marich 'Phatfingah' Moeke

Piano Tutor

With over a decade of experience writing, performing and sharing spaces with such acts as Jackson Owens, 1814, Troy Kingi, Louis Baker, as well as his own bands Mapeijo and The Den. Marich has proved to be an enthusiastic pianist unafraid of being loud and proud when it comes to his singular style of playing, with a highlight performance being the Tauranga National Jazz Festival in 2025. With a love for conversation, networking and teaching he's keen to pass on what he knows to those willing to learn and especially those of the next generation to come.

Questions?

Don't see yours? Reach out on the contact page.

What instruments do you teach?

We offer private one-on-one tuition in drums, guitar, bass and piano. We also partner with local schools and institutions to support and enhance their music programmes.

What will I actually learn?

Our lessons are flexible and tailored to you. Whether you're into classic rock, pop hits or indie bands, we'll help you learn the music that excites and inspires you, while building the foundational skills that you need to grow.

Why one-on-one instead of group lessons?

You get the most out of each lesson with dedicated one-on-one time with your tutor, free from the distractions and divided attention of a group setting. It’s a personalised learning experience, designed to help you advance at your own pace.

How much do lessons cost?

Beginner and intermediate lessons are $35 per 30 minute block. In-school private lessons at Taupō Intermediate and Marotiri School are $30. For advanced students or those wanting exam mentoring, a higher rate may apply. We'll always let you know if this applies before you commit.

Is the first lesson really free?

Yes. For all new students the first lesson is a free introductory lesson (1x 30min session). This lets you meet your tutor and get a sense of how we roll before a financial commitment. It’s also a great opportunity for your tutor to check out your skills, or introduce you to your new instrument.

Do students get to perform?

Each year we host a relaxed and supportive student concert where you can perform a song you’ve learned, live on stage, alongside our tutors. It’s a great way to celebrate your progress and experience the fun of playing in front of an audience.

Can I sit graded music exams?

For those wanting to pursue graded music exams, such as Trinity, we offer mentoring and a structured approach to preparation. Please note: the Trinity exams are typically held in cities outside of Taupō, so students will need to arrange their own travel to sit the final exam.

Where do you teach?

Our main teaching location is the Taupō-nui-a-Tia College music rooms on Spa Rd, Monday to Thursday afternoons. We also run in-school private lessons at Taupō Intermediate and Marotiri School, and piano lessons are now starting in Tūrangi.

How do I pay?

Invoices are emailed to you from Xero. You can pay weekly, monthly or per term, whichever suits your family best.