Drum Lessons in Oakland, CA

Instruments: Drums

At age 13 years old, I started playing the drums, first with private instructions with some of the greatest drummers in New York City such as Gene Krupa, Cozy Cole, and Rufus Bede Jones. I played in High school Band, University of California Jazz ensemble. I toured at many schools. I was on the same teaching staff with Tony Williams, Steve Smith and David Garibaldi. I teach all styles of drumming. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion Keyboard

It is vitally important that the environment of learning the drums be fun and comfortable. Nobody likes to come to a lesson stressed and nervous. This is not an audition, trust me, I've been in many of those and those are really stressful. Learning drums is going to be exciting, repertoire, and addicting, a good type of addict. Not only do I look forward to teaching a student how to play drums with me, but also learning at home with their own kit or practicing on a drum pad. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Drums Ukulele Recorder Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

My experience in teaching dates back to my time in college, where I coached a few music education majors on the flute. Since then, I have offered my expertise towards community flautists, Emeritus band flute players, and a wide range of percussion and flute students. I am committed to the advancement of my students and feel really encouraged to see them grow and change. From younger to older - beginning, intermediate, or advanced - I will always try my hardest to keep you engaged and moving forward. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Organ Synthesizer

Teaching has been a constant for me since college (around 2005). I helped tutor both aural theory and written theory, and also helped with beginner piano classes. Later on, I taught at the East Bay Jazz Workshop and offered private lessons part time both at my home studio and at Young World pre-school. I've taught students of all ages and skill levels for many years and also can provide some experience at arranging, theory, and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Music Keyboard

I work with my students at the level and pace that they are comfortably happy. We all come to music and music lessons for different reasons. My work is to honor that space and demonstrate that making music is an option for anyone who wants it, regardless of any perceived “barriers” in place. I am currently learning and researching models of Universal Design for Learning. I apply as many techniques as possible to engage with students and make the music both cognitively appropriate and musically enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I am largely a self-taught player. I play for 1-3 hours each day, honing my skills and feel. I dont teach reading, although I use basic notation for exercises and grooves. I have played in numerous musical situations, from jazz to rock, blues, country and even Cabaret, both on the East Coast and in the Bay Area. I have been in groups that have played in the Cow Palace, in front of thousands of people, the Concord Pavilion, and the former Keystone Korner jazz club. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I am open to suggestions and, of course, any kind of music or songs the student brings to the lessons and has questions about. Regardless of the student's skill level and age, I meet them wherever they are at, and help them progress and take the steps necessary to improve their playing. If the lessons are held at my space, I use two drum sets for teaching. This is more fun for both sides! Read More