Drum Lessons in Alton, NY

Instruments: Drums Djembe

Chris finds immense purpose behind the drum kit and strives to spread positivity through his music. He has been drumming for over 10 years and has been gigging professionally for over 6 years, performing in a variety of contexts, including both large and small jazz ensembles, funk bands, hip hop groups, singer-songwriters, and pop bands. He cultivates a unique sound at the drums, combining elements of African, Caribbean, and South American rhythms with traditional Western grooves to create something entirely fresh and powerful. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Drums Organ Synthesizer Recorder Euphonium Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Acoustic Guitar

I craft a music program based on every individual's strenght, weakness and most important: interests. Having taught music in public schools for over 30 years, I am familiar with almost every pedagogical method. Whether it is Suzuki, Gordon, Kodaly, Orff or Barry Harris, I draw from all the methodology to help all students reach their comfort zones. I will also teach how to practice your instrument-something that is often neglected. Most important,I can teach how to actively listen to music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Mandolin Tuba Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I approach teaching music with patience and enthusiasm. I realize that there is an ebb and flow in every person's life and progress cannot be measured in an even intervals. Although I am pleased at a student progress, humanity is vast and always surprising me. Each of us are indeed unique and revered. Even as we learn we can enjoy all the leaps and bumps along the way. As with any teaching method, consistency is attendance breeds the best learning environment. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

I plan every lesson differently based on the student. I first like to see what the students interests are as well as what goals they have in mind that they would like to achieve. For drummers and percussionists, I like to work out of the books, Stick Control and the Alfred method books because I believe that they develop the best technique. For mallet players, I like to work out of the Charlie Parker Omnibook as well as Bach's Partitas and Sonatas book. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Music Djembe

I graduated with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Jazz Studies: Drum Set from the Eastman School of Music, studying music theory (aural and written), music history, and composition in addition to drum set and Jazz vibraphone. During my master's degree, I taught two courses taken by Eastman and University of Rochester students (drum set lessons, and also a basic drum set class). I have worked at American Music Centre (a music store/ school in Rochester) as a drum set and percussion instructor, and have multiple years experience teaching students from ages 3 to adult. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Mandolin Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Conga Latin Percussion

Feeling and noticing that there has been gradual success is key to inspiring students to continue with their instrument. Playing a musical instrument presents numerous challenges mentally, physically, and sometimes emotionally. It is equally up to the teacher and the student to recognize the growth that has occured week to week. As long as the work is being put forth by both parties, finding success (even if small) will not be a difficult feat. Read More