Drum Lessons in Arlington, VA

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I have been teaching since 1977, and I am as passionate about teaching as I was on my first day! I have taught students of all ages and levels, and learned to customize lessons to fit their stated musical goals. A number of my former students now work in the music field, from music instructors at Towson State University to local freelance musicians. I currently hold the rank if Sergeant in the Maryland Defense Force Band, serving as a percussionist/drummer. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing drums for 14 years and started when I was 10. The influence I had from other drummers that I saw was what sparked my interest in playing them. Seeing the greats like Roger Taylor of Queen, John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, or even now Matt Greiner of August Burns Red, I wanted that, but I knew I couldn't get there without practice. After taking up lessons myself, and I continue to do so even after all those years, I have learned what it takes to be a great drummer. 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: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard

Prior to studying at Peabody I toured professionally with various jazz ensembles, including competing for first place wins at the Reno (Nevada) Jazz festival for two years. At Peabody I studied with Fernando Laires and later, Robert Weirich where I excelled in contemporary music and difficult avant guarde performance ensembles. I was also a frequent guest performer for the Peabody Camerata Ensemble under director Gene Young. In the mid 90s I created the Bachelor of Music curriculum for the Maryland Bible College. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My goal is to get students to appreciate the joy of actually practicing and performing music so that they enjoy becoming better musicians overall Practice can be time consuming take a lot of patience and perseverance. I strive to make sure practice methods are productive and enjoyable at the same time. I encourage students to practice concepts that play on their strengths and weaknesses in order to nurture self confident individuals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

My classes are structured into two parts: the first focuses on music theory, while the remainder is dedicated to playing the instrument. For beginner students, I typically use a combination of the James Bastien and Alfred's Basic methods during theory sessions. Depending on the student's chosen instrument, I supplement these lessons with additional practice materials tailored to their instrument. For adult students, I tailor lessons based on their personal interests, ensuring that the learning experience remains engaging, enjoyable, and aligned with their musical goals. Read More