Drum Lessons in Ritchie, IL

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

In my lessons, I like to start by helping the student really fall in love with drumming. You should only take lessons if you love and enjoy what you are doing. Then, I like to lay down a good foundation of rudiments and technique. I believe that by having a good understanding of rudiments and technique, it will greatly help eliminate many future setbacks when learning new/different styles. Without setbacks, the future always looks brighter. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I started teaching towards the end of high school and continued in college and beyond! I found it beneficial to be teaching students while still being a student myself. Having great teachers in my life has shaped my own approach to teaching. I discovered that when I was able to study what I was truly excited about, my capacity to learn and improve my craft increased exponentially! To that end, I encourage students to bring in original material as well as "covers" that they are interested in to build a repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Drums

In my many years of drumming, I have acquired a wide array of first hand experience. I have toured throughout the Midwest as well as Florida. I have participated in, and won, numerous solo competitions, and been an instructor of Summer Band Camps. I studied Jazz Drum Set Performance at North Central College. While there, I learned composition, improvisation, music theory, music history, ear training, and many other useful tools. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

Andrew has studied percussion for 15 years, and has been involved with the Marching Percussion Activity for over 10 years as a performer, clinician, composer, arranger, and educator. He has marched with the Emerald Knights Drum and Bugle Corps from Cedar Rapids, Iowa (inactive) as the Center Snare and Drum Line Section Leader. He also was a member of the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as a member of the Tenor Line. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

For beginning students and youth, I typically start with music theory and proper positioning. I have found an easy method for playing songs almost immediately. For students that desire sight reading as a priority, I will start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and walk them through exercises that will keep them sharp and focused. For adults, I want to learn their goal and their niche. I will structure my course around their needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Keyboard

I teach both by rote and by reading. When it comes to music theory, notation and reading music, I am also methodical in wanting my students to fully understand what they're reading so that it becomes so natural to them, it's as natural as reading a newspaper or understanding a conversation. Once the foundation is laid, a musical conversation can be had with the sound of their instrument. At the end of the process, students will find their love of music enhanced now that they know what they are doing and are doing it on purpose. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My style is largely based on my passion to create a comfortable environment and rewarding lesson plan for my students. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs.. Read More