Drum Lessons in Northfield, CT

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Conga

I have taught students from ages 6 to 60. my approach is to help each student with the proper grip and posture and to learn to adjust there instrument for maximum comfort. I begin each lesson with rudiments/rolls and spend equal time on basic music theory(beginner) and sight reading(advanced), 4-way coordination(beginner) and transcribing recorded music(advanced). My goal is to help each student progress on there instrument and learn to blend with other musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My method of teaching will both implement teaching students how to sight read but also more importantly how to play music by ear. I am very big on learning by ear because it is the way I learned music most of my life. For younger students I do want them to start learning how to sight read at a basic level because it will make it easier for them in the long run. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Those values would follow him through his time at the New England Conservatory and Manhattan School of Music. At New England Conservatory, Ryan led the drum chair for NEC's Jazz Orchestra and multiple ensembles. In 2016 he was selected to participate in the Panama Jazz Festival as a performer and educator. Shortly after, he was selected for his school's Honor Ensemble, where he and his bandmates would perform and give clinics in the Boston community. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

We begin by playing simply and slowly on the snare drum, focusing on stickings, control, dynamics, technique and mechanics, move the rhythms around the kit in common patterns, add bass drum and sometimes HiHat support. Meanwhile, common rock/funk/pop grooves are introduced and combined with the rhythmic exercises to achieve fluidity to playing rock repertoire. The same process is used with Triplet meter as jazz and blues styles are developed, then with world music contexts, Bossa Nova, Samba, Baiao, etc. Read More

Instruments: Voice Drums

My teaching has enabled me to work with young musicians of all ages and skill types. The approach I take is technique driven, while at the same time, expressive, musically sensitive, and fun! Voice students will learn English and foreign language diction, ear training and sight-singing, proper posture, stage presence, confidence, and healthy vocal production suitable for all styles of singing. Drum students will learn the importance of snare drum rudiments, how to read drum charts, the nuances of various styles, as well as, develop dexterity and increase muscular function and independence. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I love to have fun in my lessons. No single student understands the same thing the same way so I take the time to listen/understand them as a person and as a musician. While it would be wonderful if all of my students became virtuosi musicians, I understand that sometimes math class may be at the forefront of their attention. That said, practice is still required. Like a doctor, I prescribe solutions to students to help them achieve their goals and will do everything I can to help them to succeed but if they dont take the remedy, success is can be quite slow. 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