Drum Lessons in Kensington, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion

Jake has been playing guitar and percussion for over 20 years. He teaches all levels of guitar and congas, as well as beginning piano, voice and drum set. He went to Berkeley High School where he played guitar in the BHS Jazz Ensemble. He then attended the New School in New York City, majoring in jazz guitar studies. He has studied jazz guitar with Steve Erquiaga, Dave Creamer and Jack Wilkins, and congas with Josh Jones, Sandy Perez and other Cuban percussionists. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Technique: grip, stroke methods, posture, symmetry, breathing, set up. Rudiments: with and without metronome, increasing tempo by 5 bpm, great way to warm up for any lesson. Beats/Rhythms/Styles: rock, pop, jazz, funk, hip hop, reggae, Arab, African + more. Genre/style identifiers and characteristics. Independence: hands and feet exercises for fluidity and freedom of expression. Orchestration and Arrangement: utilizing the variety of percussion instruments available at the studio to demonstrate rhythms and sounds. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I am a dedicated teacher who plans his lessons individually for each student, based on their current level, needs, and interests. My emphasis is on making practicing fun while keeping the lessons challenging. I don't have a one-size-fits-all approach. I do not want to bore my students, or insist on working on music they don't enjoy. Also, one approach that works for student A might not work for student B, so I am flexible and happy to explain things from different angles, as many times as it takes for the student to fully understand the topic. Read More

Instruments: Drums

His work with the popular San Francisco Bay Area blues group, RON THOMPSON THE RESISTORS contributed to the band earning two Bay Area Music Awards (BAMMY). His impressive career also includes a motion picture role as a nightclub band member in the Academy Award nominated Peggy Sue Got Married and being featured on the ABC Television San Francisco local affiliate, KGO for his work with GRAMMY In The Schools as a mentor and instructor. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have performed dozens of shows with big bands, jazz combos, rock bands, and choirs. I have recorded both professionally and in my own practice space. I have experience teaching young children percussion, as well as general teaching experience with children ages 3-8. I love setting a good example for young people and sharing my love of music with them. As an intelligent, hard-working, and personable young man, I believe I am well-equipped to the task of instruction. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I began teaching when I substituted for one of my previous drum instructors while he was gone on a short vacation, and I instantly loved the whole process. Shortly after, I began teaching a couple of weekly beginning African drumming classes, as well as teaching through the Boys Girls Club. My experience with both of these positions was invaluable, and helped me realize that I love helping students find that moment where everything clicks! Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Organ Synthesizer

Progress is made at the student's own pace. I try to set goals that are both far-reaching and realistic. Anything is possible if you don't give up too easily! I've used a variety of different lesson books in the past. It's important to note that the Bastien piano books, as well as the Clark, Faber, and Alfred methods all play to different strengths. Since different students respond better to different methods, I try to incorporate some variety which focuses on several concepts: developing ear-training (i.e. picking up melodies and chords from ear) as well as sight-reading, technique, and choosing interesting repertoire. Read More