Drum Lessons in Norridge, IL

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

I began teaching in high school with middle school percussion ensembles, drum lines, and several private students. In college when I wasnt studying, performing or rehearsing, I was teaching and being taught. I taught privately in my home studio as well as several lesson studios in and around the North Texas area for 4 years before moving to Chicago where I've continued to teach and perform full time. I encourage a regular practice routine as well as regualr lesson attendance especially when it comes to younger students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I work very closely with every student customizing lesson plans based on their needs. From the very first lesson, we figure out his/her goals and we write them down. Then I create a lesson plan specifically suited to get them to where they want to be. I often recommend specific songs or artists they should listen to as well as certain books and practice exercises that gravitate towards reaching their goal and most importantly; true potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

First I think it is important to get to know the student and chat about what their intentions are musically. Then I can customize a lesson plan for them which includes warming up, techniques, and repertoire. I sometimes find it helpful to discuss of elements music theory, aural skills, and reading music depending on the students desires in those areas. I strive to motivate students by picking material they are excited about. Read More

Instruments: Drums

First and foremost, I teach to the comfortable speed of the student. Learning skill and permanent muscle memory is much more important that covering as much material as possible but then not grasping the concepts and motor skills. My main teaching style approaches beats and patterns in the simplest of actions, making sure the student is comfortable with those actions, then combining actions together, step by step as the student progresses until the student has the full understanding of the beat. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

For beginning students and youth, I typically start with music theory and proper positioning. I have found an easy method for playing songs almost immediately. For students that desire sight reading as a priority, I will start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and walk them through exercises that will keep them sharp and focused. For adults, I want to learn their goal and their niche. I will structure my course around their needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Keyboard

Since then, I've been teaching for 6 years in the public and charter school systems. At my current employer, Little Black Pearl Art and Design Academy, I orchestrated a master class with Israeli artist, Idan Raichel. My vocal and rap students performed with him during that class and were invited to perform with him at Chicago's City Winery and Ravinia Pavilion in Highland Park Illinois. I also performed along side him, playing piano and received high praise for my "sensitivity to the art" and collaboration with him. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is designed to give each student a feeling of progress and real growth each lesson. It's essential that every student practice every day for at least 30min in order for my method to really work. In short, I like to be a resource for my students. A person who can present the information as clear and concise as possible. If the student wants to learn just rock or blues, I would show them licks and scales that are primarily used in those styles as well as learn any song they want to learn. Read More