Drum Lessons in La Palma, CA

Instruments: Drums

During the first lesson I always assess where the student is the learning timeline with their instrument. I also find out what the student's goals are with music. Once this has been established we work on a plan of action to acheive those goals. Since the vast majority of drum students are primarily interested in learning drumset skills, we will start working on this from the very first lesson. I tend to break drumset studies into these general groups: skills and technique, independence and coordination, groove studies, and reading. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with fundamentals: rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to 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

I teach from a feel and improvisation stand point. I do start with basic rhythm studies but I love to allow for my students to explore the kit and their own comfort levels. It creates what I feel to be a sense of intimacy between them and the instrument. I believe that feeling comfortable with your instructor and your instrument harbor a much more positive and motivational learning impact on the student. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

My love for music started when I was 13 and I started playing drums. I soon got in a band and was enlisted by default as the bass player. I fell in love with the instrument and dedicated my life to becoming a professional musician. When I was 18 I moved to Boston to pursue a degree at Berklee College of Music where I graduated in 2017. Throughout the years I have had extensive performing and recording experience, having toured all over the US and Italy and recorded a few albums along the way. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Djembe

I have a method in place, but my lessons often take sudden detours when we need to work on a specific task (i.e. preparing for school band auditions) at the students request. Through my encouragement, my students play gigs, talent shows, in their school concerts, etc. Some are now professional drum teachers. I teach kids with special needs, adults, and professional musicians (drummers and nondrummers). My students' parents love me because I teach kids how to sharpen focus, increase attention span, listen intently, and memorize material more efficiently. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Derek is a Grammy-nominated trombonist based in Los Angeles, California. Derek completed a BM in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas in 2016 and an MM in Studio Music and Jazz Trombone at the University of Miamis Frost School of Music in 2018. As a freelance musician in Los Angeles, Miami, and Dallas, he has been regarded as a first-call musician in many styles of music for the past 5 years. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trombone Drums Synthesizer Ukulele Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I approach teaching in layers. Step one leads to step two, we cant skip steps! I find it important that for beginners we follow this structure. More advanced students will be on a case by case basis in regards to where we start. I emphasize imprivisation in every lesson weather it be on drums, piano or trombone. Playing music right off the top of your head, and in the moment is something you can't learn out of a book! Read More