Drum Lessons in Oklahoma City, OK

Instruments: Drums Music

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
There are many things to consider. Is your child musically inclined? Is your child always tapping their feet and hands while listening to music? Can you, as a parent/guardian, sense they have a feel for music or is it just nervous energy? Do they dream or talk about about playing an instrument, in particular playing the drums and being a drummer? Do they idolize a particular band or drummer? Is your child interested in Band or Orchestra in school? Are they currently taking lessons in school? Speak to your child. Ask them if they're ready? Ask yourself, as their parent or guardian, if you're ready to support a drummer in the household. Noise is a factor and that needs to be considered. Does your child have a disability? Physical or emotional? Sometimes a disabled child can use drums as part of their therapy. Children with emotional and behavioral conditions can be tempered with drum lessons. Check with their primary doctor, specialist, or caregiver to see if taking up the drums make sense. Lastly, never force anything on a child unless it's obvious they have a proclivity towards something. This goes for the drums, as well.

When will I start to see results?
I make sure we see progress every day. From Day 1, students progress because they are learning something new every time we meet. Playing an instrument is just like learning another language. You start out learning to read and write letters, then they move on to words, then to sentences, then to paragraphs. Similarly, learning to play music progresses using the same formula. But it takes a dedicated student to practice what is being taught. The more time a student dedicates to learning and practicing their instrument, the quicker they will see results. This means practicing everyday. Taking private lessons at least once a week with an instructor is also a key ingredient. Be sure to schedule "make up" lessons if one is missed. It's important to keep the momentum going. Students must be committed to their musicianship and to their instrument. But realize that nothing happens overnight. It takes patience, perseverance, and dedication to see results. The key ingredient is to work with a private instructor who can teach them correctly. The rest will come naturally.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
I had many teachers who inspired me over the years. I started taking lessons in school in the 4th grade and started private lessons in the 5th grade. My first private drum teacher had a huge impact on me. He was a cool guy and I looked up him. He was knowledgeable and extremely patient. His ability to teach kept me engaged and excited. I was learning something new during every lesson. I'll never forget him. In my late teens, I studied with the late, great Charles (Charlie) Perry, renowned big band drummer and the author of many seminal, instructional drum books. I was in awe of him. He was a straight shooter and provided honest criticism and guidance that has lasted a lifetime.

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