Drum Lessons in Lake Bluff, IL

Instruments: Drums

I start with training your hands to play as effortlessly as possible. We do that by working on exercises I've developed along with Snare drum books. I look to customize lessons that fit each student. Together we pick books, and music that fits their needs. As we go along I add the necessary techniques that will move the student to higher levels of playing. I approach this as I'm the coach and I help make it as easy and fun as possible. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

Seeing a student progress week-by-week is an exubertant experience. I encourage all of my students to be honest about what makes them inspired to play music and from there we work on capturing all of the components of that source of inspiration. What is so effective about this approach is that it blends both discipline and humanism. By critically examining our strengths and weaknesses in a musical context, we become better able to do the same in other areas of life. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I will also teach on the various parts and hardware of the drum set, what they do, how to fix/maintain them, and any other knowledge pertaining to knowing your kit and other percussion instruments intimately. Having been a working musician for 25 years, I will also teach how to approach all working situations, how to conduct yourself professionally, what to expect and not expect when you play out. I believe passing on the knowledge and experience of the working musician world is crucial for those new to performing out for the first time. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I firmly believe that nurturing passion for music and the drums is the ultimate goal of any private instructor. As such, I prioritize student agency to make their own musical journey. My role is to make this journey as smooth and efficient as possible by providing the appropriate materials and guidance. Though I always provide plenty of materials to enrich a student in between lessons, I don't enforce a particular practice schedule, nor do I ever scold students for meeting any "standard". Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

I am currently a Jazz Studies/Music Performance Major with an emphasis on drum set at Northern Illinois University. I recently completed my third year and will soon begin my third year. I have a passion for performing and can be seen performing with multiple bands in the DeKalb area and in the Chicago area. Major performances/recordings include the following: Waukegan Symphony Orchestra (2016), PASIC Artist (2018), and one studio recording with the band Warped Wonder (2019). Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Ukulele Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

As a result, I highly encourage my students to spend time listening to traditional rhythms so that they may understand the feel and the cultural significance of each rhythm. Rhythms in West Africa are played for every single significant event, including baptisms and weddings. Therefore, a large part of my teaching will entail understanding the cultural significance of the rhythms we are learning. Of course, none of this matters if you aren’t having fun. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I'm an experienced performer and private instructor. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies/Performance. I have had the privilege to perform with the top EIU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo with legendary guest artists such as Jason Marsalis, Vanessa Rubin, and Andy Martin. I have experience in performing different styles of music such as jazz, jazz fusion, rock, funk, and blues. Read More