Rattletree School of Marimba

I have to admit that I was very nervous about my first lesson at Rattletree. I wasn’t a musician and I didn’t know anyone there. My social anxiety was on overdrive. Now, almost 2 years later I recommend this place to anyone experiencing stress, depression or feeling frustrated as an introvert. The environment is as welcoming as it could be and making music together takes the pressure off of finding things to talk about with strangers. These days if I go more than a couple of days without playing with my bandmates I can physically feel my stress levels rise. I’ve tried a lot of different outlets to deal with my anxiety and for me, this just clicks on so many levels.

If you’ve never been to the Rattletree school, you’re doing yourself a giant disservice. Imagine a magical place where you can make music (even if you’re not talented), connect with friends in silly fun ways (without like, actually making a fool out of yourself), work out those upper arms (let’s do this ladies) AND have something to talk about and impress people with that doesn’t involve mass quantities of booze or epic fails.
The people here are genuine, they’re interesting, they’re warm and generous and awesome. You should take a class (or several) at Rattletree. It’s unlike anything you’ve done before.

Have to say after the first lesson, my smile muscles were hurting. I was immediately hooked. Drum (marimba, hand, and other percussion) instruments all provided. Rakafet, the instructor, took this mishmash of individuals at various skill levels and magically transformed us into coordinated unit making music… really! It was amazing. Rakafet must be storing credits for a future life given her ability to instruct and guide us with compassion, love, and eternal patience. Truly amazing.
Chedk out the website to see all the options; anywhere from one-​time team-​building workshop to ongoing lessons for individuals, couples, even families. In case you’re feeling musically challenged, at least check out Rattletree’s website to find out when Joel and others will be performing, It’s impossible NOT to dance. You won’t be sorry.

What? Learn to play music with others during your first class… yes…and it even sounds beautiful. I’ve tried for years to learn violin and mandolin but could never pick it up. After one class, I was able to express myself from this beautiful wooden keyboard. It’s an amazing way to not only express yourself, but also communicate with others through music not words (or text messages). Forget your Luminosity computer memory courses come to Rakefet and Joel and be motivated by the music with use of repetition and building memory. The culture of Zimbabwe is respected and honored at this studio with the music and the tales of Joel and his travels. The vibe is calm and respectful. (I love that everyone takes off their shoes upon entering.) You’ll even enjoy the ride to the studio: an area called «Band-​Aid» of band rehearsal portals. Perhaps, bring your partner and interact with each other on a whole different level other than with words… it’s cathartic and connects you to something more universal. Come on everyone in Austin listens to music, now you can finally be an active participant. (With no unnatural or painful finger positions as on stringed instruments). Your whole body is involved as well as your mind… and soul.

Great studio location, easy to find, fun atmosphere, lots of options for all levels, great energy and teachers. Austin ‘s only hands on Marimba studio!

What are the three key elements of a good music school? The teacher, the teacher and the teacher.
I have taken regular mbira (cousin of the marimba) lessons with Joel for several years and can’t speak highly enough about the quality of his teaching. You will never meet a music teacher who is as patient as he is, as dedicated to your learning and as trusting of your ability to perform.
Whether you’re passionate about trance-​inducing Zimbabwean music or just curious, expect to have a life altering experience with one of the best guides there is.

I played marimba in high school, and didn’t think I’d ever have a chance toplay again until I heard of Rattletree. Joel’s deep love and understanding of Zimbabwean traditional music is refreshing and inspiring. He is a great teacher and can make anyone sound great on a marimba and have so much fun doing it!