February 15 was a very special night in the lives of about 30 Twin Cities youth rockers.  They were treated to a private drum workshop and jam session with Clutch’s drummer Jean-Paul Gaster.

Clutch is currently on tour with Motorhead and they were playing a sold-out show at First Ave. last night.  Jean-Paul is a strong believer in the School of Rock and he volunteered to come over for an hour and a half  to rock with the kids before he had to be at First Ave. for their gig.

30 School of Rock students were on site to learn some of the coolest drumming tactics from Jean-Paul.  But not all the students in attendance were drummers so Jean-Paul jammed with the kids; playing both Clutch songs and other rock songs that everyone in the house knew.  And he shared what it’s really like to be a professional musician, making a living through music.  He talked about what is was like to be signed to a label and what it’s like to manage your own music with your own independent label.  As exciting as those stories were he also offered great advise with regards to marketing your own band, building a fan base and taking accountability for your band’s success.Jean Paul Gaster at School of Rock St. Paul MN

Jean Paul Gaster at School of Rock St. Paul MN

The kids have never been so quiet or listened so intently.  They hung on every word Jean-Paul spoke and they asked very thoughtful and intelligent questions.

Jean-Paul was incredible.  I do believe he had as much fun with the kids as the kids had with him. He was humble and real and straight forward. And I always admire the professional musicians who are willing to share their time and expertise with the young musicians striving to be where the pros are.