WHO ARE WE
We provide a caring and encouraging atmosphere where confident drummers improve their skills and where beginners are encouraged to take their first steps toward a lifelong love of music.
Master Drum Coach
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Our Master Drum Coach, Ed Francis (students call him Mr. Ed), graduated from the Austin Graduate School of Theology, Austin, Texas, USA. After years of marching in high school bands, competing in the Jr. Drum Corps, touring with the USAF World Wide Talent Contests and performing in local bands, Mr. Ed decided to bring his passion for percussion into the heart of his community where he began teaching as a drum coach at Round Rock Drums and also co-founded Rhythm Workshops. The latter being a non-profit dedicated to bringing musical experiences into the community, at no cost to the children – focusing on groups of people who have little access to making music. He also devoted 8 years in the USAF, Mr. Ed worked for the Center for Health Care Services MH/MR where he served adults with special needs. Mr. Ed never forgot how music and drumming helped him to work through the pain of growing up in an abusive and dysfunctional home environment. It’s worth mentioning that Mr. Ed is featured in the London produced film, “The Rhythm Session,” interviewed live with his students on Drum Talk TV, and part of his life’s story is included in the book, “From Bullied to Brilliant.” The students and parents at Round Rock Drums appreciate what Mr. Ed brings to our program.
Karen Walters
Administrator
Round Rock Drums
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My background is rooted in both education and customer service. I homeschooled my three boys with support from the local community, which is how I was first introduced to Ed. I also worked for eight years with Starwood Hotels & Resorts in reservations and customer service, handling guest needs over the phone, chat, and email. Those skills—organization, communication, and problem-solving—translated naturally to my role at Round Rock Drums.
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I first met Ed Francis in 2003 when my son, Justin, was nine years old and began drum lessons at Round Rock Drums. For twelve years, until Justin left for college, our family was deeply involved in the RRD community—not only as students, but as friends. My husband, Mark, and I even helped build props and costumes for shows each year.
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When Justin went to college and we became empty nesters, I found myself looking for meaningful ways to stay engaged. Around the same time, Ed was seeking help to run the behind-the scenes part of Round Rock Drums. Knowing his plate was full, I offered to help with the administrative side of the business—and he gladly accepted.
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Since then, I’ve implemented digital systems to make the studio run smoothly, including a shared calendar for scheduling lessons and spreadsheets for student records. Ed and I stay in constant communication through these tools and plenty of text messages.
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Having been both a student parent and now the studio’s scheduling coordinator, I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to get kids to lessons while juggling busy family schedules. As our student community has grown to fill every available teaching slot, I’ve enjoyed putting my organizational skills to work to keep things running seamlessly.