Drum Lessons in Homecrest, NY

Instruments: Drums

I love to see how much all of my students improve and overcome their "blocks" on the drums. I usually make a little recording of the new student on day 1 and then make them listen to it after a few lessons: It always surprises them to see how far they've gone! Those little accomplishments are a great motivation for my students to "keep at it" and continue progressing and growing as musicians. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

My teaching experience dates back to my high school days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 15 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of jazz and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the drums and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I am experienced professional mallet percussionist and bandleader with an emphasis on jazz and improvisation. In 2013, I was the first jazz vibraphonist be accepted in to The Juilliard School where I had the opportunity to mentor classical percussionists on how to improvise. Prior to Juilliard, I first attended Oklahoma City University studying music education/percussion performance. After studying for two years at OCU, I decided to transfer to Berklee College of Music to study with Ed Saindon and Dave Samuels, and to be closer to my mentor, Stefon Harris. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Nothing gives me more joy as a teacher than to have one of my students ask me a question. It sounds simple, but a student with questions is a student who wants to learn. I take this creativity and try to sculpt it into passion. I feel that a teachers job is to inspire, and point the student in the right direction of their goals, rather to be overbearing with a book and pencil. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

My methods vary. For piano, we start with simple technique exercises to make sure a student is making every note count. For younger students- like 6 and under- we'll nickname everything to make it easier. An example- the fingers should always be curled when playing piano, not flat. There should be enough space under their palm to hold hold a golf ball, so when they are playing with flat hands, I'll say 'golf ball' to remind them of the correct way, instead of being 'that mean old lady' type. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

I tailor my lessons around the student's interests while balancing this with basic general technical foundations. Dividing the lesson between hand technique and performance, this allows for a balanced and inclusive teaching experience for both the teacher and student. Read More