Drum Lessons in Paterson, NJ

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing the drums since age 10. Starting out playing rock and roll but quickly started playing Jazz, Latin, Samba, and Show Tunes. After graduating high school, I went to attend Montclair State University's Jazz program. After College I quickly got my masters degree from New York University in Jazz studies as well, where I studied with some of the most important people in modern music, including but not limited to: Lenny White, Lenny Pickett, John Scofield, Alan Ferber, Billy Dummond, Tony Moreno, and more. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

I believe that the student is always important. They are the ones that come to me to learn and in exchange, i learn from them. I play many different styles of percussion, therefore when I first meet I introduce myself and tell the about me and what I do. And I ask them what their experiences are, what they want to learn and what got the them interested in playing drums and\or percussion. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I use all types of books including Syncopation, Stick Control, New Breed, Advanced Funk Studies. Also I like to use other media where possible to teach different styles. Once the beginning student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce more musical applications related to real music. Preferably music the student is interested to learn to play. 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. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Orchestral Percussion Djembe

I began to teach music when I was in college, giving private drum lessons to several students. Since graduating, I have spent time teaching at several different after school music programs, teaching drum set and piano to students of all ages. I found that I really enjoy communicating with students and helping them find their own passion for music. To me, music is about having fun - this is what I strive to bring out in our lessons! Read More

Instruments: Drums

Seeing a student progress is the whole reason why we love teaching! I make it a point to give positive feedback as much as possible while still addressing what the student needs to work on. A student will become motivated once they see improvement in themselves. I utilize motivators that I have experienced throughout my career, such as finding a drummer that really speaks to me, and trying to mirror them language wise, or stylistically. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Djembe

For beginners I usually begin with Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone and Fundamental Studies for Snare Drum by Garwood Whaley. Once the student has a good grasp on basic reading and technique, I usually introduce rudiments and start working on solo or play along repertoire. I also like to use The Drum Set Musician by Rod Morgenstein. Besides book work I also like to bring in things that I am working on either with bands I play with or personal projects. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Ukulele Orchestral Percussion Conga Djembe

I first began teaching in 2012, when I gave volunteer drum lessons. Shortly after that, I began giving piano and voice lessons both in schools and one-on-one. Currently, when I'm not teaching private lessons, I work part-time as a traveling pre-school music teacher, where I teach preschoolers music with my guitar, picture books, and even puppets! I am comfortable teaching students of all ages but prefer young children, as they can benefit the most from developing a passion for their instrument, which can lead to a lifelong pursuit of music. Read More