Drum Lessons in Cold Spring Harbor, NY

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Orchestral Percussion

My approach to teaching is completely different for each and every student. First and foremost, I first try to understand the student's pace and his/her previous knowledge in the respective instrument. That way, I can assign personalized practice routines to get them started. From there, I start to set goals, push their potential, and leap towards challenges that pushes the student's passion and curiosity. Ultimately, the goals I set for myself as a teacher is to provide the student with the ability to practice smart, diligently, and push their own creative minds into the music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

The most rewarding part of teaching is watching the student master something they have worked hard on. I feel it is important for each student to develop his or her own musical identity. Having confidence in their ability, and reaching a level of comfort with the instrument I feel helps them develop both as a musician and in other parts of their lives. The lessons are designed to meet their individual needs so i can help each student progress at their own pace. Read More

Instruments: Drums Music

No lesson is complete until the student has a solid understanding of the concepts discussed and demonstrated. "No pressure" is my mantra! Students will learn music theory, how to read musical notation for the snare drum and the drum set. I teach how to control of the drumsticks, starting with the loose grip and mastering the bounce and rebound. Understanding and mastering these 3 elements will set students on the right course for success. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga

The most rewarding thing that happens in the development of musical skills and a teaching relationship, is when a student develops a love of music and their instrument of choice. In my years of experience, I come to the understanding that each student is different and their progress depends on themselves. As a result, I always encourage my students to set goals for themselves that are realistic, but that will also challenge them in a productive manner. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Music Djembe

I began my teaching career almost 20 years ago at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music. While I was there, I worked with students of all ages and levels of playing ability. From that experience, I was able to not only develop a teaching method, but also to adapt and adjust that teaching method to accommodate for each student's unique personality and learning style. During my time there, I wanted to incorporate musical concepts that I learned from playing tablas in my lessons with drum set students. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

Also, for 4 years, I was the head of the Jazz Percussion Department at "Taller De Jazz Caracas," the most prestigious jazz academy in Venezuela. Since I moved to New York City, I have become an active member of the exciting city’s jazz scene, both as a performer and educator, playing with artists such as Will Vinson, Doug Weiss, Kenny Werner, Tim Hagans, Mike Holober, Mimi Jones, Lukas Gabric, Livio Almeida, Josiah Boornazian, Antonio Mazzei, Brent Vaartstra, Coyote Anderson, just to name a few. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Drums Mallet Percussion

It's important to set realistic goals, I will assign short things to work on per week. I can tailor my instruction to the needs of any student by listening to their wants and needs. Everyone progresses at their own pace, so remaining patient and being able to work together to become successful is key! I find that sometimes it is best to find out from the student what makes them most excited about playing the instrument. Read More