Drum Lessons in Fort Myer, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

Hello! My name is Donovan, and I am an instructor who specializes in ear training and technique. Originally being a self-taught musician, I began with piano and harmonica, then eventually branched out to guitar, bass, banjo, among several others. I have ran sound equipment from an early age as well, learning how to set rigs for full bands and how to mix and master tracks for recording purposes. I have met and played with many famous and unfamous musicians, and find that the highest amount of talent is undiscovered and uncultivated. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have always aspired to be a versatile drummer. Growing up I idolized drummers like Steve Gadd, Steve Jordan, Dennis Chambers, and many of the jazz and latin greats. I learned how to play many styles of music along the way including: jazz, soul, funk, rock, pop, blues, salsa, samba, candombe, afro-beat, reggae, symphonic percussion, and the avante garde. I am a strong believer in developing solid reading skills, learning and listening to many styles of music, and playing improvisationally. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

Weekly lessons with me are structured around achieving attainable short-term goals. Daily practice sessions are encouraged, but thoughtful, intermittent practice sessions far outweigh the necessity of sitting behind the kit every day. I strive to make the atmosphere of the lesson relaxed and fun; I'm patient and accommodating for different styles of learners. Although I'm fond of several famous publications such as Stick Control and The Art of Bop, I don't rely on text as the only way to deliver a musical message. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I am deeply inspired by students who are eager and motivated to learn drumming. I meet each student where they are, looking and listening for the unique learning style of each student. After i access what approaches work best based on their ability level, I design a systematic practice routine based on Technique, Vocabulary, Independence, Coordination, and Musicality. If its required I can assist in writing charts for songs. Im focused on targeting the areas where improvement is needed and to encourage and challenge students to develop discipline, good habits, while striving to improve and overcome the weakness aspects of their drumming. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I love adjusting to fit the needs of the student and am thrilled when a student turns this craft into a love or hobby! That is always my goal, to make sure that music is fun. That should be the most important facet. If it remains fun, I can always adjust my curriculum to tailor to the needs of the student. By doing so, I get to also grow as a teacher and human being! Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

In addition to having performed on thousands of stages around the world over the last 15 years, I have been teaching private lessons in percussion for the last 10 years. I have experience teaching individual and group lessons, in some cases with groups of over 50 students. In addition to lessons which address the practical concerns involved in beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels of drums, percussion, & cello, I teach lessons in structuring performances (aimed mostly at bands looking to take their live production to the next level), prepping for studio time, tailoring performances to their setting (studio, venues small & large, workshops), and techniques for learning large volumes of material quickly. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

My experience is vast. With over 35 years of experience in touring, recording, theatre,private lessons, group lessons and band camps. Read More