Mikel Perkins
Mikel is a PNW native, a proud dad, and a fourth-generation educator with a degree in Music, 30+ years of playing, and 25+ years of teaching. He brings a powerful combination to the studio: high-level technical schooling backed by an ongoing, real-world career as an active touring and recording musician. From classical and jazz to rock, rap, and metal, Mikel has played it all.
He completely rejects cookie-cutter lessons. His core motto focuses on blending measurable progress with genuine fun through a truly customized curriculum built entirely around your personal musical goals. As the former Lessons Manager for both Guitar Center Bellingham and 4/4 School of Music, Mikel balances elite industry insights—including private drum study under Tim Alexander (Primus) and audio engineering training under Grammy-winner Jack Endino (Nirvana)—with a patient, encouraging approach designed to help you find your own unique artistic voice.
Genres: All, specialize in Rock
Some Performance Credits: Maklak, Upwell, Crucial Change, Stereo Creeps, Power Of Coming Age
Instruments taught: Drums, Audio-production, Guitar, Bass
The BHAM approach
High-Quality Instruction for Every Budget
We pride ourselves on offering some of the most competitive rates in Whatcom County. Whether you are paying our standard rate or utilizing our assistance programs, you are receiving top-tier instruction:
Customized to You: We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Every lesson is tailored to your specific goals and unique learning style. Whether you want to learn to play by ear, read music, or produce your first track, we build a path that works for you.
Holistic Support: We care about our students' success inside and outside the studio. We are proud to offer homework support to help students balance their academic responsibilities with their musical passion, ensuring they have a supportive environment to thrive in all areas of their education.
Available 7 Days a Week: We know life is busy. To ensure music fits into your schedule, we offer private lessons every day of the week, including weekends.
The Student-Teacher Match: We value the teacher-student dynamic above all else. Our goal is to pair you with the absolute best instructor for your specific needs. If we feel your goals would be better met by an expert at one of our partner schools, we will facilitate that connection for you.
The Lowest Rates Around: Even our regular lesson rates are designed to be among the most affordable in the area, ensuring that professional instruction remains within reach for ALL.
Sliding Scale Tuition: For those who need extra support, we offer a flexible "pay-what-you-can" model. Our goal is to ensure that no student is ever turned away due to financial constraints.
The BHAMS Teacher Guarantee: Our instructors are paid a livable salary and receive their full rate for every session, regardless of scholarship status