Drum Lessons in Highlandtown, MD

Instruments: Drums

For the beginner student I start with the essentials to reading music. Once the student has a understanding of rhythmic note values, I generally start with Alfred's Drum Method Book One or Elementary Drum Method by Roy Burns. I also start working snare drum rudiments and focus on issues like grip and wrist stroke to ensure correct technique. I use a range of different books and material for drumset, according to where the student's skill level and musical interest is. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I want my students to discover their own voice on the drums, to find their own rhythms and express themselves authentically. Technical proficiency is important, of course, but it's only one part of the equation. I believe in nurturing a love of music that goes hand-in-hand with technical skills. By encouraging exploration and experimentation, I help my students tap into their creativity and discover the therapeutic power of drumming. It's about finding joy in the process, building confidence, and using the drums as a means of self-discovery. Read More

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

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Alfred Piano Basics. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to work from Czerny and introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I graduated from Towson University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Performance, earning the music department's Outstanding Achievement in Music Award in 1991. From 1994-1997 I taught applied and ensemble percussion at Shepherd University and, since then, have developed a successful private teaching practice in the Baltimore/Washington area. Many of my students have achieved success at the county, state and professional levels. I am the principal drummer/percussionist at Toby's Dinner Theater in Columbia, MD and perform regularly with the DMV's premier event/party band Retrospect. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

Focusing on these key elements coupled with the personal goals of the student, each player will experience a unique, fulfilling musical development. My teaching philosophy is centered on being patient, allowing students to discover their talent at their own pace. Weekly lessons paired with high yet realistic expectations have yielded great results for my students. When a student becomes aware of the control that they have over how they play, real success can be achieved. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

For my beginner students, I usually start with how to properly hold the drumsticks. If a student doesn't have proper technique while playing the drums, they won't progress nearly as fast. I then like to go into learning rudiments and basic drum grooves. Once they start to get comfortable on a drum set, I'll throw in some basic sight reading. The books I mainly use are "Stick Control" by George Lawrence Stone, "The New Breed" by Gary Chester and "Syncopation" by Ted Reed. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have an arsenal of books I may work through or recommend for students from beginner to the advanced player. However, my lessons are customized to fit each students needs. The exercises or books I may work from are usually recommended to the student after assessing where they are skill-wise, what their end goal may be, or based on what tools they like that will help them retain the information the best. Read More