Drum Lessons in El Cerrito, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Drums Ukulele Recorder Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

The key ingredient to learning is interest. I believe that my students need to have an interest in what they are playing so that they can keep their minds and spirits engaged. Rudiments require attention and practice, but there is much more to learning an instrument than just technique; passion also needs nurturing. If a student is really in to Star Wars, for example, I will gladly incorporate the 'Imperial March' into their rudimentary studies. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion Keyboard

It is vitally important that the environment of learning the drums be fun and comfortable. Nobody likes to come to a lesson stressed and nervous. This is not an audition, trust me, I've been in many of those and those are really stressful. Learning drums is going to be exciting, repertoire, and addicting, a good type of addict. Not only do I look forward to teaching a student how to play drums with me, but also learning at home with their own kit or practicing on a drum pad. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

My teaching philosophy is student centered. I realize that every student is different in their physical or mental capabilities; that each student has different expectations with their relationship to music and with themselves; and that each student has their own strengths, insecurities, and pace of learning. Focusing on what makes each student different and unique is what guides how I teach each student. For example, I've had a handful of students with autism who had limited verbal capabilities. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

We will start from a variety of exercises from the book Stick Control working the hands and feet. Then a variety of beginner drum set books from Chet Deboe to work the 3 and 4 limb independence . I work from a variety of drum books depending on the student and their goals as a player. My goal with every student I teach is to be in any musical situation be it jazz, rock, or show tunes and be able to play confidently. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I approach lessons by striking a balance between what the student wants to work on and instilling the fundamental skills that are needed to approach whatever they want to learn. Students will learn stick technique, rudiments, reading, and limb independence/coordination. I also focus on Moeller technique and ergonomics around the drum kit, while helping students find a setup that works for them as they find their own voice. Read More