Drum Lessons in Burton, WA

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion

I believe that the first step towards building proficiency in an instrument is having fun with it. I strive to make the lesson space one that promotes positivity, experimentation and excitement - with these as a foundation we can make the hard parts more enjoyable! I take notes on each lesson and have a plan for the next one in mind. However, I always enjoy following a direction that the student is interested in and can cater lessons to personal goals however ambitious or modest. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I began teaching in 2008, shortly after beginning my studies at the University of Washington. My private students have ranged from total beginners to advanced, each one presenting a unique set of interests and abilities to work with. In addition to teaching my own students, I have much experience as a substitute percussion teacher at Northshore Junior High School (Kingsgate, WA) and Spotlight Studios (Woodinville, WA). I have also presented many clinics and workshops at local schools including Garfield High School, Edmonds-Woodway High School, Ballard High School, Eckstein Middle School, and Holy Names Academy, as well as for Seattle JazzED. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Drums Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

I began the study of trumpet in 1965 under the instruction of Les Beigle, noted Seattle trumpeter. In 1969, I graduated from Snohomish (WA) High School, where he played solo trumpet in the high school band under the direction of Edward Peterson. I received his Bachelor of Music degree with honors from Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle in 1980. Instructors included Gary Peacock, Jim Knapp, Butch Nordal, Art Lande, and Julian Priester. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

Each and every student will respond differently to instruction, and I am proud to say that I am extremely adaptable. I want to make sure that I am communicating with each individual in a way that they will understand and be successful with, because the student is the most important variable. I use a wide variety of pop culture, classical influence, and I make sure to provide my students with opportunities to challenge themselves and grow in many ways, including encouraging them to participate in live performaces, competitions, and composition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

You become great by how much effort you put into the application of my guidance through your own practice." I cannot make you the performer you want to be. I can only guide you through the process. This is why I am always excited to bring on a new student. Each student I have worked with holds a special place with me. I strive for those key moments when my student comes to a new musical understanding. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Djembe

I am patient and creative in my approach to teaching technique, sight-reading, and musicality. I believe that music performance should be an enjoyable and energizing experience for the performer and listener. I assign practicing material based on the goals, interests, and performance level of each student. While learning individual pieces can be fun, I also focus on giving the student the right tools to become a life-long musician in whatever capacity they choose. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

For my beginning drum students, I use Mark Wessels "A Fresh Approach to the Snare Drum and Drum Set", Rod Morganstein's "drum set musician", and Mitchell Peters' "Developing Dexterity". For students that have a good grasp of the basics, I work through material that caters to their specific interests (jazz, rock, latin, West-African, orchestral/school band, or marching percussion). I also write original etudes for my students based on their needs and include a midi accompaniment to motivate students to work on their assigned material. Read More