Drum Lessons in Kensington, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion

I like students to learn their favorite songs while learning technique, such as scales and chords, as well as music theory.   Read More

Instruments: Drums

I emphasize technique for beginning students. I call attention to hand and finger control, and offer a number of exercises develop the muscles needed to play fluidly. I teach a few levels of the rudiments, and show students the opening pages of the famous George Stone book, Stick Control for the Modern Drummer. From there, I work with students on drum rolls, groves and fills. My approach to drumming is to be as innovative as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Organ

For beginner students who are pursing music on the tonal instruments, I typically start with learning the names of the notes on the instrument and the major scale in every key as it relates to the piano. For the bass guitar I start of with basic finger strength techniques and exercises while incorporating the major scale fingering form and Nashville numbering system for all tonal instruments. For voice, I start off by finding the range of the individual and then teaching warmup techniques while building the individuals technique through finding a song and learning how to sing along.  Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Music Keyboard

For most of my beginning piano students, I use the piano adventures series. They offer a clear and well paced curriculum with numerous supplemental resources in a variety of styles. For beginning music theory, I use the Berklee School of Music texts or the Benward and Saker textbooks as well as many videos and other resources to explore musical concepts. For singing, I use a variety of sight singing books, all depending on the age and experience of the student. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I adapt my methods individually for each student, based on their current level, needs, and interests. My emphasis is on making practicing fun while keeping the lessons challenging. The content of my lessons includes technique (efficiency of movement, injury prevention), creativity (cultivating ones own ideas, grooves, fills), as well as developing independence (coordination) and soloing. I always apply these and more concepts to practical use and have my students play along with music, which is the best way to learn an instrument. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Lessons are given on two drums sets: instructor and student. I fulfill the needs and desires of the students and make them progress as a musician. I inspire them in this way. I also stress to my students that there are no short cuts to become a great musician like taking drugs and alcohol. My philosophy to them is that anything that you want to become good and great in, you have to work hard for. Read More