Drum Lessons in Emerald Hills, CA

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I have more than 20 years of experience playing in original and cover bands, both live and in the studio. I have performed and recorded in many locations in Europe and the U.S. For over ten years I have been teaching. I have taught private lessons, group lessons and ensemble lessons, guiding students through their first band experiences. I am proficient in many styles of music, including Funk, Jazz, Rock, Metal, Pop, RnB, Soul, Reggae, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, other Caribbean and Latin styles, and others. 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: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion

I like my students to work on their performance personas, as well as technique and repertoire. I want my students to be engaged and excited about the music they are working on and to practice performing it like the rock star they are! Read More

Instruments: Drums

GRAMMY In The Schools Mentor, Music Director, Music Instructor Instruct and mentor high school students in music performance, music industry career guidance, direct musical performances at San Francisco State University Rusty Key Record Company Founder Responsible for music recording, production of audio projects from song writing and arranging, recording, manufacturing through promotional phases Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I always say that rhythm is more important than the notes. Play the right rhythm and the notes will come instead of playing every right note while sacrificing rhythm. I encourage students to make their mistakes loud, proud, and in rhythm so everyone has a better idea of what needs to be worked on most. I also emphasize isolating parts to practice and working backwards. Example: play the last two bars of the song until comfortable with it, now play the last 4 bars, last 6, last 8...etc., whole song. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

When I begin with any student, I like to ask what they love, what they wish, and what they'd like to do during their lessons. Depending on the answer, I may start the student with tape on the fretboard, under the strings, outlining the chords for a guitar player. Or I may start with a book outlining the fundamentals of music and focus on sight reading. I like to have the lesson be a mix of what the students want, and what I believe to be useful information. Read More