Meet Tim Macon | Owner of Macon Music Academy, Drum Instructor, Drummer/Percussionist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tim Macon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tim, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
“The single most important decision I made was choosing to prioritize the people I surrounded myself with—both professionally and personally. Early on, I realized that the success of a music school isn’t just about talent or curriculum; it’s about the team and the community you build. I made a conscious effort to hire instructors who not only excelled musically but also shared my passion for teaching, empathy for students, and a commitment to growth.

Likewise, I sought mentors and peers who inspired me, challenged my thinking, and encouraged me to aim higher. This philosophy extended to my students and their families as well. By fostering a community of positivity, dedication, and trust, I created an environment where everyone could thrive, including myself. That decision—to be intentional about the people in my circle—has been a key part to my success.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being a full-time musician is a challenging path for anyone who pursues it. For many years, I worked a demanding job that stretched from 6 AM to around 6 PM. After work, I would spend time with my family—having dinner, helping put my kids to bed, and kissing my wife goodbye—before heading to practice. My practice sessions often ran from 9:30 or 10 PM until 2 AM (sometimes shorter sometimes longer), and then I would wake up and do it all over again. This routine went on for years because, while holding down my day job, I was also playing in local rock, funk, country and party bands, I knew I needed to continually hone my craft and advance my skills.

There was a time when I struggled with anxiety and self-doubt, constantly overthinking my performances on stage. However, I learned that preparation is the ultimate antidote. Being prepared not only reduces anxiety but is an essential part of becoming a skilled musician. Over time, I embraced the growth process, both as a musician and as a person.

My musical and life journey has been a blessing, one that God has graciously allowed me to experience. Through the highs and lows, I’ve seen God’s faithfulness and learned to trust Him in all circumstances.

In the past year I had the privilege of releasing my first single, an instrumental track called First Bite, on Spotify and Apple Music. Over the past six or seven years, I’ve had incredible opportunities to travel and perform with regional and local artists, including Ray Johnston and Josh Weathers. One of the highlights of my career was performing with Josh Weathers at the 2016 Presidential Inaugural Ball. I’ve also toured with Casey James, which gave me the opportunity to perform at the Grand Ole Opry and on a USO tour. These experiences—and countless others—have shaped me, both as a musician and as a person.

Now, I bring those lessons and experiences to my teaching at Macon Music Academy (MMA). Teaching has been deeply fulfilling because it allows me to share the skills I’ve developed behind the drum set and the mindset needed to succeed as a musician. My goal for every student at MMA is to help them truly understand their instrument, learn how to play music collaboratively with others, and discover how to positively impact the audiences they perform for. Music is more than just a skill—it’s a way to connect with others and bring joy to the world. That’s the heart of what I teach.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I’m Fort Worth born and bred, so although the metroplex is FULL of amazing places, I’ll take any chance I can to spread the Funkytown love, and maybe my next post with feature some of our other favorite spots around DFW 😉
We love checking out the art at both the Kimball and the Modern Art Museum, then grabbing lunch at nearby Central Market and enjoying a picnic at the Botanical Gardens or Trinity Park. If you’re a little more adventurous, my wife and I love renting kayaks to see downtown from a different perspective!

Definitely don’t miss the Stockyards- do some shopping, have some great Tex-Mex at Paloma Suerte and catch a show at Tannahill’s. If you’re more of a performer type, try line dancing lessons at Billy Bob’s. Either way, end the night with drinks at the beautiful Veranda Bar at the Drover Hotel.

Fuel up for the day with our family favorite- the weekend brunch buffet at Blue Mesa then we’re catching a train for a day trip- either the TRE to spend the day in Dallas, or the TexRail to Grapevine to stroll, shop and eat our way down Main Street. Back in Fort Worth for the evening, there are many great venues to catch live music. Sunday jazz jams at the Cicada or Monday night jazz jams at Distribution Bar, Tuesday night songwriter night or Thursday night blues jams at Magnolia Motor Lounge, and we have to mention the return of The Post, reopening at a new spot just west of downtown. Wherever you end up, make sure the night ends with the legendary Dutch Baby at Ol’ South Pancake House.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout goes to my family for their support and love, Also, to the DFW community of musicians whose welcoming culture has allowed me to grow as a musician.

Website: https://www.maconmusicacademy.com

Instagram: @timothymacon

Linkedin: Tim Macon

Image Credits
Ben Vallance, Jordan Whitmore