Drum Lessons in Oakbrook Terrace, IL

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I am a working professional who enjoys enhancing the knowledge of young musicians, and watching them grow as people and individuals. I am a freelance percussionist, musician, consultant, and private lessons instructor currently residing in Chicago. I have worked withnumerous high school, collegiate, WGI, and DCI programs in Nevada, Alabama,Wisconsin, California and Illinois as an educator, consultant and clinician. My original works have been performed by the UNLV Star of Nevada Drumline, the Troy University Sound of the South Drumline, The University of West Alabama CatalystDrumline, the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps, the Americanos Drum and Bugle Corps, along with various high school programs across the country. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

I strive to create an atmosphere of fun and creativity in my studio. This is done while simultaneously building a strong foundation of technique, posture, and musicality in all of my students, regardless of their age or experience level. I have no personal agenda when instructing. I consider myself merely a means for the student's own personal and musical development. Lesson structure depends on the individual's goals. If the student hopes to nail an audition for a spot in a high school's drumline, then we will work on snare drum technique and concentration during private practice and during performance. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I'm an experienced performer and private instructor. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies/Performance. I have had the privilege to perform with the top EIU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo with legendary guest artists such as Jason Marsalis, Vanessa Rubin, and Andy Martin. I have experience in performing different styles of music such as jazz, jazz fusion, rock, funk, and blues. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

Nothing makes me happier than watching a student progress and develop a passion for music. Therefore I think its important to let students grow and develop at their own pace. Setting realistc goals, acknowleging accomplishments, and challenging a student helps fuel their passion and increase their confidence! If a student has passion and confidence, tailoring lessons to their specific needs is easy! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Keyboard

For my intermediate students, I will teach them all 12 major keys and the circle of fourths and fifths and how they interplay with song writing and chord progressions. I will then teach them the chords of the scales and turn the chords into progressions and into songs. For my advanced students who know all of their scales and chords, I will tailor the lesson around what they seek to learn and improve on. 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: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music

Every student comes at a different level, no matter what age they are. For younger students who are just beginning, I feel like it is my job to first and foremost get them excited about playing the drums. I find it to be difficult to teach anything if the student dimply does not want to be there because they do not have a good relationship with the instrument. Once I feel the student is excited and ready, I usually introduce the "Progressive Steps to Syncopation for the Modern Drummer." This book is important for building skills in reading music, ear training, and general funky rhythms! Read More