Drum Lessons in Indian Creek, IL

Instruments: Drums

I've been playing drums for 48 years. I'm still enjoying the playing of drums, and searching for new knowledge on how to play better. I've toured and performed with great musicians. I've had the great opportunity to be a drum set clinician for Sabian Cymbals, Maxwell Drums, Aquarian Drumheads, Vic Firth Drumsticks, and Trick Dum Pedals. Teaching a large group of drummers is great fun but I really enjoy the one on one interaction between student and teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard Djembe

Passion for music and fluency with the language of music are my ultimate goals. When I can get students passionately and freely expressing themselves, without hesitations, inhibitions, or apologies, I feel I have liberated the master artist that dormant within each of us. Everyone has such a powerful, and beautiful voice within: to be able to fearlessly communicate it through the power of music is my goal for all students. 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: Piano Voice Drums

I encourage regular lesson attendance and practice at home. Consistency is key when learning and developing a new skill set especially when concerning younger students. I feel that the balance of establishing a strong technical foundation and fostering a love for music is fundamental in fostering passion and enthusiasm for new students. I try and find out what the student is interested in and tailor each lesson to their specific needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I started teaching towards the end of high school and continued in college and beyond! I found it beneficial to be teaching students while still being a student myself. Having great teachers in my life has shaped my own approach to teaching. I discovered that when I was able to study what I was truly excited about, my capacity to learn and improve my craft increased exponentially! To that end, I encourage students to bring in original material as well as "covers" that they are interested in to build a repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

Fun, energetic and productive! My students always say that they leave their lessons with a burst of inspiration. 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; Read More

Instruments: Drums

For young and beginning students, I focus intently on proper technique (holding of sticks, timing, 4-way coordination, etc.) to ensure a proper foundation for success. For older and experienced students, I look to work on a wide range of styles to help the student understand the nuances of performance techniques and promote an understanding of how interconnected various performance styles are. This ensures the student is capable of performance with a wide variety of bands and can adapt to other musicians. Read More