Drum Lessons in Harwood Heights, IL

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I make sure all of my students have a solid foundation in technique and rythm with Progressive Step to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer by Ted Reed, Stick Contro by George Lawrence Stone, and then try to tailor the lessons to the students specific needs. I use standard method books based on the students goals along with personal exercises and techniques to help supplement the development of the focused area of study the student wishes to pursue. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

First I think it is important to get to know the student and chat about what their intentions are musically. Then I can customize a lesson plan for them which includes warming up, techniques, and repertoire. I sometimes find it helpful to discuss of elements music theory, aural skills, and reading music depending on the students desires in those areas. I strive to motivate students by picking material they are excited about. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Bass Guitar Organ

For all students during the first lesson I have them play something regardless of their skill level. Based on personal experience I’ve noticed that not all students have the same level of ability. For example in drum lessons I’ve had some entry level students sit down and play a groove and have another sit down and have no coordination. After determining the students ability level, my next step is to determine what the students likes. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

Beginner students with me, no matter what age, start by studying out of the Stick Control book which has many sticking combinations for developing strong hands. It's designed for snare drum but I convert those combinations to the drum set to make unique rhythms that exercise all four limbs. I also stress rudiments for everyone, which I apply to the drum set as well to make it fun. The other aspect of drumming I work on is independence of both hands and both feet. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

Since high school, I have worked to maintain a private percussion studio. Now that I am 24 years old I have experience teaching individuals with special needs, individuals whose primary language is not English, and adults and children who possess a varying degree of experience with either music in general or with instruments of the percussion family. Education is something that I take very seriously. I become elated when witnessing the progress of a student. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I come from a family of natural musicians. Meaning Ive been blessed with a good ear for music . I started playing at the age of 4 and was performing professionally by the age of 15. I grew up exposed to several styles of music from all my family members. Everything from Rock, Jazz, Funk, Latin, Motown, RB, Country, Eastern Music, and Pop. Learning multiple styles of music before I was formally trained was a big help when It came time to learn proper techniques and feels as well as reading and writing . Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; I'm teaching. I’m an avid columnist for Modern Drummer Magazine and I sing/play guitar for one of Chicago's best Nirvana tributes called Smells Like Nirvana. Read More