Drum Lessons in Norfolk, CT

Instruments: Drums

Chris Dorn is a professional drum instructor located in the Dutchess County area. He has been playing drum set and percussion for 30 years, and has taught in the Dutchess County area for 15 years. In 2007 he was the drum tech for Jessica Simpson setting up drums, percussion and recording gear all across the US. In 2008 Chris founded and built Ghostgate Studios, a lesson and recording studio in Poughkeepsie designed specifically for drummers. Read More

Instruments: Drums

He has also toured the U.S. including Northwest tours with pianist, Clay Giberson, a summer jazz series at The Baltimore Museum of Art with Grammy Award winner, Vincent Herring’s Quartet, midwest shows with fusion, master bassist, Percy Jones and West Coast tours with the prolific pianist and composer, Joel Forrester.
 Forrester, who was recently featured in Downbeat Magazine, composed the theme for National Public Radio's "FRESH AIR" with Terry Gross and is also a founding member of The Microscopic Septet. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 20 years ago, and have been consistently teaching high school band and percussion for the last 15 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the instrument and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I am friendly, fun, outgoing and encouraging. I will find student strength's, pinpoint and work on any weaknesses, and enjoyably introduce necessary topics in a musically progressive order. I will never yell at or talk down to a student. Any behavioral challenges will be discussed with parents. I do not skip steps. I accept differing techniques of all accomplished drummers and will help the student use the tried-and-true, explore the many variations, and help develop their own style and voice. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My teaching style focuses on meeting you where you're at and helping you grow into the exact type of drummer that you want to be. I am also well versed in music theory and music history, including rock and pop history and I believe that exploring these things along with the lessons can be so helpful! I respect all students moving at their own pace. If you are struggling with something in between lessons, you can contact me and I will try to respond as soon as possible to help guide you through the exercise. Read More

Instruments: Drums

While at MSM, Ryan worked at Motts Hall II as a percussion teacher for their outreach program. After graduation, he would perform with Phil Markowitz, Jimmy Bruno, Zach Brock, and John Escreet and become a rotating member of the Christian Sands Trio. Notable past performances include a month-long residency in Shanghai for Lincoln Center, Boston Celebrity Series, Jordan Hall, Umbria Jazz, and EFG London Jazz Festival. Ryan is currently working as the primary drummer for the New York-based improv group Altus, and leading his band, the Ryan Sands Trio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

I normally use the Standard of Excellence method books for most of my students; however, I am open minded to adjusting to each individual student's musical needs, whether it be Jazz, Classical, or whatever style music the student is focusing on. For Drummers, I prefer the Haskell Harr Method, or the Buddy Rich Method Book, as well as the Breeze Easy Method Book. For piano instruction, I prefer the Faber Piano Method Books, as they are tailored to the students' individual needs. Read More