Drum Lessons in Ridgewood, NY

Instruments: Drums

I like to teach in a fun engaging way. Keeping the mood light yet focused. As long as the lessons are enjoyable and the student sees his or her growth, they will continue to practice and grow as a drummer/musician. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Djembe

I think the most important part of teaching is developing a positive mentoring relationship to the student. My favorite teachers always went above and beyond to not only educate me on their favorite subject, but also to show me life lessons along the way and listen to my problems. Ultimately I know that not every one of my students will become a professional musician, and that is okay! I do want them to develop a positive relationship with rhythm and music, and an ability to enjoy these things in anything they listen to. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I began playing drums at a very early age and performing in my early teens. Throughout my teens I played in various jazz ensembles including the Empire State Youth Orchestra and began my studies at William Paterson in 2012 under the direction of Mulgrew Miller. At William Paterson I gained access to many incredible professional musicians and various performance opportunities in the North Jersey/NYC area. Since moving to North Jersey I've played at various venues such as Shanghai Jazz, Dizzy's Club Coca Cola, Joe's Pub and the Harlem Tavern. Read More

Instruments: Drums

In my experience teaching for the past twelve years I have realized a few things including the fact that my methods work. I teach my students to read drum music well enough that most of the younger ones end up playing in the school band. We also play along with real music which I believe is a totally important part of my lesson schedule and it's fun for the student. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

My two favorite books for all my beginning drum students are George Lawrence Stone's Stick Control and Ted Reeds Syncopation. These books, and the rudiments are a great place to develop the basics of the instrument. After learning the foundations, I develop an individual program to meet the students needs and desires, making the instruction both educational and fun. I learn from them what techniques, styles, and other drummers interest them, and tailor the lesson towards helping them learn the skills that will keep them interested. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students, I typically begin with a deep dive on rudimental studies and keyboard skills on drums and mallet percussion. I gradually introduce notation and music literacy tools to improve the students understanding of how the fundamentals of music interact with one another. I use a lot of rote teaching methods as well to take full advantage of how physical percussion and drums can be. I find that students interests will quickly guide me to making suggestions for different repertoire to take on as the student is ready. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Orchestral Percussion

My approach to teaching is completely different for each and every student. First and foremost, I first try to understand the student's pace and his/her previous knowledge in the respective instrument. That way, I can assign personalized practice routines to get them started. From there, I start to set goals, push their potential, and leap towards challenges that pushes the student's passion and curiosity. Ultimately, the goals I set for myself as a teacher is to provide the student with the ability to practice smart, diligently, and push their own creative minds into the music. Read More