Drum Lessons in Gladstone, NJ

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

I am a musician and teacher from Nyack, NY and I have been teaching private and group lessons for 8 years. I am as passionate about teaching as I am about playing, and I am always high energy and motivated to help students achieve their goals. I graduated from Oberlin Conservatory in 2018, and in my years as a musician I have performed with the likes of Gregoire Maret, Steven Bernstein, Ingrid Jensen, and more. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga

One of the many ways I begin a lesson with a student is by asking them what type of music they enjoy listening to and playing. Once we have this initial discussion, I begin to build the foundation for the lesson plan and my teaching. For example, if a student mentions they enjoy playing Rock and Roll, I will begin with that particular style and simplify it for them. As a music instructor, I like to listen to my students play and then address the areas that need to be addressed with them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

For beginning students, we initially tackle the fundamentals of music and drumming. This includes how to properly hold the sticks, basic reading skills, music terminology, rudiments, and stickings. I also teach one or two drumset beats in the first lesson to show the student that playing drums is for everyone. After the student begins to understand the fundamentals, I structure a tailored lesson plan that addresses their areas of interest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Conga Latin Percussion

I began teaching at the Long Island Drum Center in 1990 and was the youngest instructor ever added to their ranks alongside their world renown faculty. Since then, I have taught hundreds of students in many locations in New Jersey and in New York. I have participated in drum clinics, been interviewed by major drum publications, and am a member of the Vic Firth Education Program. As a member of the National Association for Music Educator, Im committed to staying up to date with all the latest findings in the field of music education. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Music Djembe

In addition to my work with individual students, I have also made significant contributions to higher education. As an adjunct instructor at New York University, I took on the responsibility of drafting a comprehensive curriculum for my courses. This role not only honed my skills in curriculum development but also deepened my understanding of academic standards and the importance of a well-rounded music education. My curriculum design focused on integrating practical musicianship with theoretical knowledge, ensuring that students receive a balanced and enriching educational experience. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I teach basic stick technique using George Lawrence Stone's Stick Control, and I have numerous hand exercises based on patterns from that book that I warm up with every lesson. Starting with snare drum and basic hand technique also will incorporate rhythm reading, and basic limb independence. When my students start behind the kit, they will start by applying some of those hand exercises to the drumset, and also learn how to orchestrate and play basic grooves. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I have been teaching for five years and how I teach is definitely influenced by experiences. I have had the opportunity to study with musicians in all occupations and styles. This is why I am so grateful to be able to find what inspires each student of mine and help them grow in whatever style gets them playing. Read More