Drum Lessons in Lanham, MD

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I started teaching while in college, beginning in 1987 and gradually progressed to teaching as a career in 1994. I have taught at the collegiate level at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. I have also taught award-winning drumlines at Calvert Hall College, Lansdowne High School and Dulaney High School, all in the Baltimore metropolitan area. I have taught students of a wide age range, including students as young as 5 to older adults in their 60's and 70's. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

It is this experience, that gives Mike an edge and understanding of what it takes to not only succeed in an academic setting but also in a 'real world' situation. Studying under great teachers himself, has given Mike the tools to design lesson plans specific to the student and be attentive to each students needs. Being a teacher of close to 25 years of all ages, he understands what it takes to make lessons fun, engaging, and all around great musical experience's that keep his students motivated and excited to get better on their instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard

I grew up playing both piano and drums. In addition to my Piano Masters at Peabody, I minored in percussion and performed with the Peabody Percussion ensemble in Carnegie Hall. In the Air Force I played piano with the Washington State Air National Guard Jazz band for two years. I then transferred to the Pennsylvania Air National Guard where I played Tympani and other percussion for the Air Force Symphonic Band in Harrisburg. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

While in Chicago, I was featured on 10 album releases and shared the stage with many notable performers: Phil Woods, Renaldo Domino, Mark Colby, Tom Garling, Scott Hesse, Danny Barber, Bob Ojeda, Chris Madsen, Ron Perrillo, Victor Garcia, Patrick Mulcahy, Rob Clearfield, Dennis Carroll, Matt Ulery, Marquis Hill, and opened for Jennifer Hudson. As a sideman, I performed with many acts including the Chicago Jazz Orchestra, Glenn Miller Orchestra, Lowdown Brass Band, Frank Catalano, and Mucca Pazza to name a few. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Double Bass Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

As I have taught for many years, I feel encouraged and motivated when I can pass along my love for music. Nothing is more inspiring to me than to see someone's face light up when they pick up their instrument and learn. I set tailored goals for my students to reach every week, so that they have specific targets to reach. Positive reinforcement is the key to keeping a motivated student, and I encourage them in anyway possible making myself available to them throughout the week even after the lesson is over.  Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music

My teaching methods are entirely based on the current abilities and individual learning style of each individual student.  I do reference a few standard and time-tested method books for various skill levels, however, every lesson will be customized to the goals and needs of the student. I strive to keep up with current MMEA audition repertoire for those students interested in pursuing those opportunities on the local and state level. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have always aspired to be a versatile drummer. Growing up I idolized drummers like Steve Gadd, Steve Jordan, Dennis Chambers, and many of the jazz and latin greats. I learned how to play many styles of music along the way including: jazz, soul, funk, rock, pop, blues, salsa, samba, candombe, afro-beat, reggae, symphonic percussion, and the avante garde. I am a strong believer in developing solid reading skills, learning and listening to many styles of music, and playing improvisationally. Read More