Drum Lessons in Emeryville, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion

Jake has been playing guitar and percussion for over 20 years. He teaches all levels of guitar and congas, as well as beginning piano, voice and drum set. He went to Berkeley High School where he played guitar in the BHS Jazz Ensemble. He then attended the New School in New York City, majoring in jazz guitar studies. He has studied jazz guitar with Steve Erquiaga, Dave Creamer and Jack Wilkins, and congas with Josh Jones, Sandy Perez and other Cuban percussionists. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Lessons are given on two drums sets: instructor and student. I fulfill the needs and desires of the students and make them progress as a musician. I inspire them in this way. I also stress to my students that there are no short cuts to become a great musician like taking drugs and alcohol. My philosophy to them is that anything that you want to become good and great in, you have to work hard for. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion Keyboard

For beginning learners I will focus on drum stick hand placement, grip, and control. This will fundamentally give the student more comfort in rhythm later on in the lessons. A proper hand grip and finding a comfortable position is key to starting the foundation of being a great drummer. We will also focus on the nomenclature of the drum kit. We don't just want to hit the drum kit, but we want to learn what it is we are hitting. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I adapt my methods individually for each student, based on their current level, needs, and interests. My emphasis is on making practicing fun while keeping the lessons challenging. The content of my lessons includes technique (efficiency of movement, injury prevention), creativity (cultivating ones own ideas, grooves, fills), as well as developing independence (coordination) and soloing. I always apply these and more concepts to practical use and have my students play along with music, which is the best way to learn an instrument. Read More

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

I learn by doing and I believe that my students should play what inspires them! If it's classical, let's study Bach and Mozart together - if it's Latin, let's study Dave Valentin and Johnny Pacheco. I have always had a broad taste in music and I think it's wonderful when students bring me songs that inspire them. Let's work the chords out together and study the greats! I believe that the engaged student will be the successful student. Read More