808 & Soul Drum Lab
A youth drum training experience built on rhythm, discipline, confidence, and culture.
This 8-week summer drum lab gives Shreveport youth the opportunity to learn real drumming fundamentals from experienced Black women musicians in a creative, structured, and empowering environment.
Limited Slots Available.
Let's Get Loud
Where Beats Get Built & Confidence Gets Loud
Program Length: 8 Weeks June 1 - July 20
Location: Morningstar Baptist Church, Shreveport, LA
Instructors: Eden Butler, Touring Drummer
Leona Gray, Shreveport's Favorite DJ
Audience: Youth students between the ages of 6-16 with interest in drums and music
Spots: Limited Capacity
Genres to Explore:
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🎸 Rock/Pop
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🎤 Hip-Hop/R&B
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🙌 Gospel/Worship
Experience Level:
Beginner = Foundation Level
Intermediate = Performance Level
What Our Students Will Learn
Students will receive beginner-friendly drum instruction covering:
Drum Basics
Understanding the drum kit, stick control, posture, timing, and basic rhythm patterns.
Groove & Pocket
Learning how to stay steady, play with confidence, and understand the role of a drummer.
Hip-Hop, Gospel & Soul Influence
Connecting modern rhythm with the sounds students already know and feel.
Teamwork & Confidence
Building discipline, listening skills, leadership, and stage presence.
Drum Instructors
Eden Butler
Touring Drummer & Endorsed Artist
Music has always been a parallel passion. Classically trained on trumpet, baritone, and tuba since age 11, Eden’s musical journey took a defining turn in 2004 when she fell in love with the drums. Her move to Omaha placed her among elite talent, performing with artists such as Multi-Platinum Hip Hop legend Twista, internationally acclaimed violinist Dominique Hammons, DJ Khaled’s The Voice finalist Leah Jenea, Grammy-nominated jazz organist Mitch Towne, and the award-winning R&B group Enjoli & Timeless.
As a 3-time Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards winner—including Artist of the Year and Best R&B—Eden helped solidify Enjoli & Timeless as a powerhouse group that shared stages with major R&B and Hip Hop icons like Lyfe Jennings, Juvenile, Lenny Williams, Angela Winbush, Donnell Jones, Keith Sweat, Musiq Soulchild, Case, and others.
Since relocating to Louisiana, Eden continues to expand her musical footprint as the percussionist for Southern Blues Hall of Fame legend TK Soul in his all-female band, FLOSS (First Ladies of Southern Soul).
Eden is also a proud endorsed artist with Constantine Cymbals.
Leona Gray
Shreveport's Favorite DJ
Music has always been more than a hobby for Leona Gray, it has been a form of expression, discipline, and connection. She began playing drums at the age of 12 in church, where her passion for rhythm and percussion first developed.
A self taught drummer with a deep love for music and creativity, Leona later played percussion at Peabody Magnet High School and continued her drumline experience at Grambling State University. She also had the opportunity to perform for Chester D.T. Baldwin during a concert appearance in Alexandria, Louisiana.
In addition to drumming, Leona writes songs, produces music, and creates original beats bringing a well rounded creative approach to music and rhythm. Through 808 & Soul Drum Lab, she is passionate about helping youth build confidence, discipline, creativity, and self expression through music and culture.
8-Week Curriculum
Week 1: Jump Into The Groove
Week 2: Lock Into the Groove
Week 3: First Fills + Second Song
Week 4: Dynamics + Control
Week 5: Third Song + Rudiments
Week 6: Pocket + Timing
Week 7: Performance Prep
Week 8: Showcase Week
Students will be grouped in sets of 2 or 3 by age ranges of 6–9, 10–13, and 14–16 to help create the best learning experience for every student level and learning style. Classes will be held on Mondays or Thursdays evenings spaced out between 4:45pm -7:15pm in 45-minute increments during the Summer session.
1 session per week.
Families may choose between two program options:
🥁 Full 8-Week Summer Session - $325
June 1 – July 20
Includes the complete 8-week training experience and final graduation showcase.
🥁 4-Week Half Session - $180
June 22 – July 20
A shorter accelerated session for students joining later in the summer and also participate in the final graduation showcase.
All students will celebrate and showcase their progress together during the final graduation experience at the conclusion of the program. Details to be announced.
Classroom Drum Set, Practice Area, Training Materials, Sticks and Wristbands all included.
Sessions will be held every week at:
Morning Star Baptist Church of Shreveport
5340 Jewella Ave, Shreveport, LA 71109
Inside the Auditorium, on the 2nd floor.
Contact Eden for more details. (402)401-1840
Payment options are available!
This Is The Lab
Where Rhythm Meets Purpose.
808 & Soul Drum Lab is more than drum lessons. It is a hands-on music training experience designed to help youth build confidence, timing, focus, discipline, and creative expression through the power of rhythm.
Hosted in partnership with Morningstar Baptist Church, this program creates a safe, exciting space for students to learn, grow, and experience the joy of music.