Drum Lessons in Fairfax, VA

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing drums for 14 years and started when I was 10. The influence I had from other drummers that I saw was what sparked my interest in playing them. Seeing the greats like Roger Taylor of Queen, John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, or even now Matt Greiner of August Burns Red, I wanted that, but I knew I couldn't get there without practice. After taking up lessons myself, and I continue to do so even after all those years, I have learned what it takes to be a great drummer. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My teaching experience started in Baltimore, mostly backstage at local band jobs when other drummers would ask how I did certain groves and fills with speed and intensity while giving the band breathing room. I started to notice that the technique the other drummers were referring to was generally based on what I learned from the drummers who influenced me, and I was able to break it down well for those interested in learning more about it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

Mike comes from a varied and vast array of musical experiences. He has a bachelor's of music in jazz studies from UNC Wilmington and a Masters of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Maryland. A highly trained performer on classical and modern piano as well as traditional and contemporary drum set and percussion give Mike an edge in his teaching abilities. Mike has been playing drums and percussion for over 25 years, piano for around 15, and has been studying voice for almost a decade. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Organ Conga Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs.. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I have taught for many music schools (both public and private).  I have also owned my owe school of arts, teaching all instruments, putting together young groups.  One group in particular called: "ARCTIC THUNDER" was a group of 14 children from 8 - 14 yrs old.  They performed at Walt Disney (Magic Music Days), and opened for many known recording artist.  You can see a video of them recording by searching for Kayla Arctic Thunder on Youtube. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I came up through the Fairfax County band program. Due to circumstances beyond my control, I wasn't able to "give back" to this as a public school teacher. My wish now is to help as many current band students as I can. I relocated from Virginia and am looking to establish a presence in MontgomeryCounty. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

On the first lesson, I like to help students create realistic, long-term goals for themselves. Then the student and I develop a plan to help them achieve them. Learning tools include method books, recordings of the lesson, and playing along with me. I also make solo pieces available, and encourage the student to participate in local recitals. My lessons generally follow the county public school's music curriculum and include rhythmic and melodic dictation, ear training, sightreading, theory and song form. Read More