Drum Lessons in Northwoods, IL

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use humor and my own experiences to first establish a caring environment in which the student can be comfortable. Once that connection is established, I like to find out the students interests and make sure a personal goal is set that we can achieve together. There has to be something exciting the student can achieve in order to develop self-motivation. I employ a number of tactics to stimulate self-expression and problem solving skills, as independent work and practice is crucial in any musician's journey. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Keyboard

Basically I start with questions on why the individual wants to learn how to play that particular instrument. Then I follow with how much do they know about the instrument of their choice. So following a brief historical lesson we get into how to start playing that instrument. Also why I love to play that instrument and why I'm playing it with passion. I start teaching with basic scales or vocal warm-ups. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I love to teach my students the basic tools of what it takes to be a professional musician, whether or not they are into music as a hobby or as a serious profession. I currently play drums for the hit Broadway musical (non-union version) of Rock of Ages and when I'm not on the road; I'm teaching. I’m an avid columnist for Modern Drummer Magazine and I sing/play guitar for one of Chicago's best Nirvana tributes called Smells Like Nirvana. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

In my lessons, I like to start by helping the student really fall in love with drumming. You should only take lessons if you love and enjoy what you are doing. Then, I like to lay down a good foundation of rudiments and technique. I believe that by having a good understanding of rudiments and technique, it will greatly help eliminate many future setbacks when learning new/different styles. Without setbacks, the future always looks brighter. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I also strongly believe in the power of performance and having the opportunity to share what you learn and enjoy with others, so depending on the age I always strongly encourage finding performance opportunities of any kind, playing/practicing with friends, studying abroad, etc. However, as I said, every student is different, so these approaches have to be flexible in order to successfully accommodate my instruction to each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have been really fortunate to network in the music scene to meet so many different people that have welcomed me into a myriad of musical projects with widely differing styles. I've been very active as a working musician, playing small bars, large clubs, festivals, private and corporate events, wedding, and even VIP section shows at large venues with national acts. The expansive diversification of experience at different levels has thoroughly prepared my to know how to survive as a working musician and I passionately pass on this gained knowledge and experience with my lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I teach students to read music and achieve excellence, and learn to play contemporary music using chord sheets, depending on the goals and preference of the student; Teaching the importance of training the ear, which is where the confidence lies and the ability to play. Using methods that enables musicians to play what they actually conceive or hear rather than bore their listeners with licks and notes that work off a page. Read More