
1040 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico
(813) 709-7822
Jam Room Music
Learn With Us
Single 30 minute lesson: $40
Single 60 minute lesson: $75
Ongoing Weekly 30 minute lessons: $125/month
Ongoing Weekly 60 minute lessons: $250/month

Rafi Cruz
Music Teacher
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Piano
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Bass
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Acoustic Guitar ​
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Electric Guitar
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Drums
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Vocals​
With over 20 years of experience in music education, Rafi is a passionate and dedicated instructor specializing in piano, bass, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, drums, and vocals. He has taught students of all ages and skill levels, from guiding a beginner through their first chords to helping more experienced students develop their musical talents and deepen their understanding of music theory, performance, and composition. Â He is fluent in English and Spanish. Â His commitment to nurturing musicianship has earned him a reputation as a teacher who not only helps students master their instruments but also inspires them to discover the joy and power of music.

Blaine Dillinger
Music Teacher
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Guitar
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Ukulele
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Bass
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Piano
Blaine Dillinger has dedicated his life to the art of music, both as a performer and an educator. As a member of the internationally acclaimed band HIRIE, he brings passion and skill to every performance. As a session musician, Blaine showcases a diverse range of techniques and genres in his playing. With 20 years of experience teaching guitar and a music degree from The Ohio State University, Blaine has guided countless students on their musical journeys. His lessons blend technical expertise with a personal touch, creating an environment where students of all levels can thrive. Beyond the technical aspects of music, Blaine has a goal to inspire people to explore their musical passions in life. Beyond the classroom Blaine enjoys spending time with his loved ones and has a passion for nature, especially reptiles.
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David Colon
Violin / Viola
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Violin
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Viola
David is a Tampa based violinist and has enjoyed teaching for over 15 years. He has performed with the Lakeland symphony as a section violinist for several years along with various professional engagements throughout the bay area. He is the winner of the 2009 young artist competition at the University of North Florida, and studied at the University of South Florida under Carolyn Stuart. David has also studied with various violinists and professors within the Florida Orchestra, University of North Florida, Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival and currently enjoys a career as a violinist serving the needs of the musical community in the Tampa Bay area. As a teacher he is Suzuki Certified as well as a proud mentor to many violinists who have gone on to their own musical careers. David specializes in audition preparation as well as setting up new violinists with proper technique and clear direction to becoming a well trained musician. David has taught group classes at Lawton Chiles Elementary, Hunter’s Green Elementary, and Lutz Prep as well as teaching master classes at Wesley Chapel High School and Riverview High School.

Raul Zapata
Drums and Latin Percussion Teacher
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Drums
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Latin Percussion
Raúl Zapata (Dr. Zapa) is a professional drummer and educator with over 13 years of experience performing on international tours and teaching drums and Latin percussion. He studied and graduated from the National School of Arts in Havana, Cuba, where he developed a strong musical foundation rooted in both technical excellence and artistic expression. Throughout his career, Raúl has achieved significant milestones, including three Grammy nominations and one Latin Grammy nomination with the band he currently serves as Musical Director. He is also a DW Drums artist, representing one of the most internationally recognized drum brands in the industry. As both a touring musician and instructor, Raúl focuses on helping students truly understand the instrument and feel comfortable and confident behind it. His teaching emphasizes coordination exercises, technique, groove, and rhythmic vocabulary, while also guiding students on how to connect musically with other players in ensemble settings. His approach goes beyond mechanics, incorporating improvisation, musical communication, and practical tools to manage performance anxiety through the instrument. Raúl’s goal is to create a supportive learning environment where students develop solid skills, musical awareness, and confidence, allowing them to express themselves freely and musically.

Drew Haggerty
Music Teacher
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Voice
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Guitar
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Bass
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Drums
With over 25 years of experience in the music world, Drew has established himself as a dynamic and versatile musician. A passionate performer, teacher, and songwriter, Drew has honed his craft in singing and playing guitar, bass, and drums. Over the last two decades, he's played across a variety of venues in the vibrant Tampa Bay area, captivating audiences with his energy and skill. Drew’s musical journey has seen him lead bands in diverse genres including reggae, funk, punk rock, and ska, as well as performing as a solo artist. His rich experience in these genres allows him to bring a wealth of knowledge and creativity to his teaching, making lessons engaging and adaptable to a wide range of musical interests. As a songwriter, Drew crafts original music that resonates with his unique musical style, adding another layer to his artistic versatility. In addition to performing and writing, Drew has spent the past several years offering private lessons, teaching students of all ages and skill levels. Whether helping beginners find their rhythm or guiding advanced musicians to refine their technique, Drew’s approach is both patient and encouraging, fostering a love for music while developing students' musical abilities. Drew also studied performance music and music production at Full Sail University, which has equipped him with a deeper understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of music. This formal education, combined with his extensive performance experience, allows him to provide a well-rounded, professional approach to his lessons. Drew’s passion for music, along with his dedication to his students, makes him a standout figure in the music community. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the classroom, Drew continues to inspire and shape the next generation of musicians."

Paul Zimmerman
Guitar Teacher
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Acoustic Guitar
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Electric Guitar
Paul is a solo guitarist based out of Lakeland and started his musical journey in 2008. Being classically trained since age 10, his passion is deep for the art of the solo guitar as a concert instrument. Earning his Bachelors Degree in Classical Guitar performance, with a minor in Jazz studies from Frostburg State University, Paul has had the opportunity to study with many critically acclaimed concert musicians and Grammy Award winners. Originally from Maryland, Paul has experience teaching in both a classroom setting, as well as private one-on-one lessons with students of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. In his free time, Paul enjoys arranging jazz standards for solo guitar and performing at local venues and events throughout the Tampa Bay region.


Sara Schmidt
Woodwinds Teacher
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Flute
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Clarinet
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Saxophone
Sara is an experienced music educator with 15 years of teaching experience across PreK-12 settings. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively with beginner to intermediate band students and has a strong background in instrumental music instruction. She plays French horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, flute, clarinet, saxophone, and also plays a little piano and guitar. Her teaching practice is grounded in building strong musical foundations, fostering student confidence, and creating engaging, inclusive learning environments for diverse learners. After many years of teaching in Nebraska, she recently moved to Florida, and is excited to continue growing professionally and experiencing new opportunities in music education. Sara's passion for music and education continues to guide her work as she supports students in developing both musical skills and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.