Drum Lessons in Saint James, NY

Instruments: Drums

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! 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

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

As a Brubeck Fellow, he received ensemble coaching from mentors Dave Brubeck, Joe Gilman, Fred Hersch, Robert Glasper, Bob Hurst, Christian McBride, Jeff Tain Watts, Eric Harland, Freddie Hubbard, Nicholas Payton, Miguel Zenon and Joshua Redman. The Brubeck Institute Jazz Quintet was selected as the 2007 Down Beat Magazine best college ensemble. Cory credits the Brubeck institute as one the most insightful musical experiences. After completing the two-year fellowship program, Cory moved to NYC to finish his undergrad studies at the New School University. Read More

Instruments: Drums

As I said before, I like to teach as I was taught and add things I've learned along the way. Learning any instrument, I was told, is like building a house; you need to lay a strong foundation upon which to add walls, doors, windows, and decor (styles, techniques, feels, and your own personal strokes unique to each individual....there's no roof because you can never finish learning!). Drums especially focus on the base, because of their role in any musical group. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

As a multi-instrumentalists, I use a cross disciplinary approach even when a student is only learning one instrument. I do make use of method books for beginners, and the specific book depends upon the instrument, but I have my own methods and materials which I utilize in my lessons. Building a repertoire is encouraged, and I use the material to assist in instructing in theory and musical communication. My students are taught to be self-sufficient, by way of practice, study, and cultivating an "ear." Read More

Instruments: Drums

I teach basic stick technique using George Lawrence Stone's Stick Control, and I have numerous hand exercises based on patterns from that book that I warm up with every lesson. Starting with snare drum and basic hand technique also will incorporate rhythm reading, and basic limb independence. When my students start behind the kit, they will start by applying some of those hand exercises to the drumset, and also learn how to orchestrate and play basic grooves. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Keyboard

For beginning students, I typically start with the method book that the child is given by the school Music teacher, making certain that they are at least adequately prepared to play their assigned studies (or pages) for their school Music lesson. I also incorporate playing the Duets provided in that volume, along with the students. I then suggest that they purchase other necessary methods, duets and solos at their local Music Store(s), as they progress, and they will therefore require more advanced Musical materials than that used at their school. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Everyone is different. Some students learn faster by using their ears and some by reading. Both of these skills are clearly important but one will always be weaker. This is where knowing your student and what they're trying to achieve is important. Some students want to learn a simple drumbeat, some want to learn a specific song. I have two goals in my lessons. One: What does the student want to learn? Read More