Drum Lessons in Paramus, NJ

Instruments: Drums Conga

One of the many ways I begin a lesson with a student is by asking them what type of music they enjoy listening to and playing. Once we have this initial discussion, I begin to build the foundation for the lesson plan and my teaching. For example, if a student mentions they enjoy playing Rock and Roll, I will begin with that particular style and simplify it for them. As a music instructor, I like to listen to my students play and then address the areas that need to be addressed with them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I am experienced professional mallet percussionist and bandleader with an emphasis on jazz and improvisation. In 2013, I was the first jazz vibraphonist be accepted in to The Juilliard School where I had the opportunity to mentor classical percussionists on how to improvise. Prior to Juilliard, I first attended Oklahoma City University studying music education/percussion performance. After studying for two years at OCU, I decided to transfer to Berklee College of Music to study with Ed Saindon and Dave Samuels, and to be closer to my mentor, Stefon Harris. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My teaching approach is very relaxed and focused at the same time. I always strive to make every lesson motivating and fun, depending on the level and the interests of each student. Often times I like to discuss and converse with my students about parallel topics of life as analogies to create a more comprehensive and cohesive understanding of any given assignment or concept that the students are trying to achieve or learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trombone Drums Synthesizer Euphonium Tuba Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Thank you for taking the time to read this I look forward to working with you. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

For beginner students on drums I use Ted Reed's Syncopation and Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone. These books provide a great foundation for every drummer and once we put together a great foundation our potential greatly increases. I also assign a great deal of listening for my students from all areas of music. For more advanced students we do use Syncopation and Stick Control as well but there are a number of other great resources such as The New Breed by Gary Chester or Creative Coordination by Keith Copeland. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have been teaching for a little over a year now. My students range from ages 8 to almost 60. I specialize in helping beginners and intermediate drummers. I truly enjoy watching a musician accomplish something that they may not have thought was possible. I have so much fun playing the drums. It's of utmost importance to me that my students experience that same joy! Drumming is not easy, so I've seen students struggle, but with positive reinforcement, encouragement, passioin and work ethic, I am proud to say that I've seen all of my students thrive! Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Synthesizer Orchestral Percussion Keyboard

Yet with my older / more serious students I like to push them to reach a level of performance they didn't think they could get to! I also like to look at how what we learn on the drums relates to the bigger picture within the music music and within life. If you study with me, you will improve command of your instrument and learn how to make the music feel good, all in a positive atmosphere. Read More