Drum Lessons in Northvale, NJ

Instruments: Drums

My most important goal to all my students is to only inspire them to keep working on their craft and to explore new music to listen to. I always communicate with my students to make sure they are satisified with what they are learning and to not get frustrated if they are 'stuck' on a certain lesson/exercise. Experience on learning music and an instrument should be fun and exciting! Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Music Djembe

My teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering both technical proficiency and creative expression. To achieve this, I employ a combination of established techniques and personalized approaches: Using the George L. Stone stick control book as a foundational tool, I promote limb independence and improve technical skills. This classic method helps students develop precise control and coordination, essential for any percussionist. Understanding that each student is unique, I create customized exercises that cater to their individual strengths and areas for improvement. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I do my best at motivating students and tell them, however much time you put into the instrument will always translate into what they can get out of it. I am very laid back but also very realistic. Setting short term and long terms goals will be the key to improvement. I believe in playing with music when you are learning as well. Instead of a metronome, you can practice exercises/rudiments to a song you like. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

I believe that the student is always important. They are the ones that come to me to learn and in exchange, i learn from them. I play many different styles of percussion, therefore when I first meet I introduce myself and tell the about me and what I do. And I ask them what their experiences are, what they want to learn and what got the them interested in playing drums and\or percussion. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Conga Latin Percussion

I began teaching at the Long Island Drum Center in 1990 and was the youngest instructor ever added to their ranks alongside their world renown faculty. Since then, I have taught hundreds of students in many locations in New Jersey and in New York. I have participated in drum clinics, been interviewed by major drum publications, and am a member of the Vic Firth Education Program. As a member of the National Association for Music Educator, Im committed to staying up to date with all the latest findings in the field of music education. Read More

Instruments: Drums

At a young age I found a passion for music, as soon as I started playing I realized that it was what I wanted to do for my career. I started studying and practicing as much as I could to learn anything and everything about it. As I progressed I applied Berklee College of Music and was accepted there to continue my studies, and one of the best lessons I learned was that I had an obligation to teach those who weren't given the same opportunities that I was. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Djembe

For beginners I usually begin with Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone and Fundamental Studies for Snare Drum by Garwood Whaley. Once the student has a good grasp on basic reading and technique, I usually introduce rudiments and start working on solo or play along repertoire. I also like to use The Drum Set Musician by Rod Morgenstein. Besides book work I also like to bring in things that I am working on either with bands I play with or personal projects. Read More