Drum Lessons in Azalia, MI

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

I started taking Drum lessons of my own at Southern Thumb Music in Richmond, MI around the age of 10. My teacher, Keith Ottenbacher, was a great guy who taught me everything I know in every style. It was also there that I participated in many Percussion ensembles that earned many awards throughout the state. Not only ensembles, but independent Snare performance, earning high rankings and several 1st place awards. I started playing in bands around the age of 14, and traveling to do shows around Michigan. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

My diverse teaching experience has made me very sensitive to the different needs and interests that students bring to the table. To watch students' musical growth both on a broad scale and in small increments - the excitement of finally executing an exercise, piece, or idea that they have been working through, for instance - is something that brings me great joy and inspires me to motivate them to develop further still. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

More than anything music should be fun. The greatest musicians are the ones who enjoy playing music even when they're just practicing. I like to teach in a way that involves asking the student questions in order to get them to figure out the answer for themself, rather than just lecturing the whole time while they start daydreaming! This way the student is more involved in the learning process and it can make their time spent learning an instrument more worth it. Read More

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

I have been teaching music for more than 10 years. While living in New York City I taught group ensemble classes for students ages 10-16 which played everything from jazz standards to pop, rock, hip-hop and blues. I’ve taught private lessons in drums, guitar and piano for Third Street Music Settlement, the country’s oldest community music school. My students have went on to participate in Berklee School of Music and Jazz at Lincoln Center educational programs. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have various teaching styles that I adapt based on the individual I am teaching. Some people learn best through visual and auditory methods, while others require written instructions. I am comfortable teaching in both styles, but I have noticed that most individuals learn best through hands-on experience. Nonetheless, I can adjust my teaching approach to accommodate anyone who wants to learn how to play the drums. If a student has interest in playing the drums with other people quickly, then i will also teach them important factors that come with that. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I emphasize, above all, practice. If a student doesn't practice daily, then they aren't going to improve at their full potentail rate. I would never "push" a student, but I do encourage students to strive for their best. I know when I need to adapt the situation to fit a student's specific needs. If a student isn't getting something, I know exactly how to back up, break it down, and explain it in a way that they will understand. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

Music is my passion and driving force, and I love to share that love with others. I graduated from Churchill High School in Livonia, MI after 4 years of drumline and orchestra, and went on to study 2 years of Jazz Studies at Wayne State University. Ive been teaching students ages 5-19 since 2007 and I love it. Lately, my main gig has been working on the roster for the illustrious event/wedding band Bluewater Kings Band. Read More