Drum Lessons in NYC New York

Instruments: Piano Drums

My methods vary. For piano, we start with simple technique exercises to make sure a student is making every note count. For younger students- like 6 and under- we'll nickname everything to make it easier. An example- the fingers should always be curled when playing piano, not flat. There should be enough space under their palm to hold hold a golf ball, so when they are playing with flat hands, I'll say 'golf ball' to remind them of the correct way, instead of being 'that mean old lady' type. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

For beginning students, I typically start with the basic fundamentals of the instrument, focussing on right posture, grip and sound. For intermediate students there is more freedom. If there is a good understanding of how the fundamentals work, the student can share her / his preference with me. Since I teach all genres, there is a very broad palette to discuss. Whenever I have a good feeling with the student's preference, I'll come up with a system so we can start working on new material. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga

I teach rudiments, technique, and reading drum charts for my beginner students. Wity more advanced students, we study sightreading, and explore different styles of drumming. Typically, I favor using drum method books, and listening to recordings for students to use and listen to in between lessons. Keeping a steady tempo is of course an essential part of good drumming -- I use a metronome to help mystudents achieve that skill, and encourage them to use one when practicing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Most important to my teaching is that each student to listens to a lot of music, and learns to play the music that they love as soon as possible. I work with a variety of method books/videos depending on skill level and stylistic interest, and teach time-tested regimens for building raw ability on the instrument. I also have many exercises of my own invention that are fun to listen to and play, while still remaining challenging and building facility. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

First of all, theory is extremely important to learn music. By learning and understanding theory you will realize and appreciate music as the amalgam between art and science. Music is heavily influenced by math. Music is science of the soul. Secondly, I make a lot of emphasis on improvisation as well. As soon as you understand the fretboard and your finger get used to playing, then improvisation connects your fingers with your soul, your muse, your inspiration. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching style adapts to the necessity, interest and pace of the students. If you are more interested in building a technique playing we can get very methodical studying from the books but if you really want to play, we are gonna play! A big part of my teaching is playing with the students or creating sequences (play alongs) so the student practices music in context. It could be frustrating and boring when technique is de-contextualized. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have a youthful and oopen minded approach to teaching. It is most important to me that the student is enthusiastic and hard working. If these two traits are accounted for, the results will come inevitably. I always make a point to acknowledge accomplishments and inspire the student to stay focused and determined to improve. Read More