Drum Lessons in San Marino, CA

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Before instructing a student, i like to find out their reason for starting and overall musical goals. I will then assess which methods will be most effective for each individual student. Sometimes this looks like working out of a book, sometimes it looks like just playing music together and sharing ideas. In general, my goal with all my students is to help them develop a deep personal relationship with music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

I have always loved music. I write and create music everyday. When I graduated high school I earned a band scholarship which allowed me to play in many different genres of music. I played in Big Jazz bands, Small Jazz combos, and pit orchestras. I toured with the Pittsburg State University Jazz Band and played timpani and snare for The Pittsburg State University Syphonic band. All four years. Fast Forward, in 2001 I placed an original piece of music in a film called "Punks". Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My lessons are based on 3 different approaches. The first is the understanding of the essential rudiments for drumming. These help to instill all of the basics and the foundation of drumming. The second is utilizing the collegial based learning systems. These include instruction in many genres, dynamics, appropriate context, and practical application of drumming. Lastly, I identify both the specific individual goals and the strengths and weaknesses of that specific student. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Djembe

Here's what I've learned from teaching thousands of drum lessons. I know what the very next step is for every student. I know what is just barely out of reach for them, and that becomes their assignment (or assignments) for the week. I can easily and accurately asses what they are capable of and I expect that from them. That is why they have to do push-ups when they don't complete the tasks. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

I have over 30 years of teaching and professional experience. Piano is my first instrument, but I also have a degree in percussion. For piano: I have studied with Charlie Banacos, a music master from the New England area for 11 years. For percussion: I have studied with Vic Firth, timpanist of the Boston Symphony and also Alan Dawson, jazz drummer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

My teaching style is very Freddie Gruber, if you don't know who that is I recommend you look him up on youtube! I believe in motion. In understanding the motions your body has to make and repeating them like an athlete to get the same sound on the drum every time you hit a drum. In sitting down to play and not be nervous you will mess up, but love the fact that you will mess up and it's okay and part of this process. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar Music

When teaching my students, my lessons are relaxed and informal, with a focus on building basic knowledge that will be applicable throughout the musical journey- however, I also pride myself in helping my students enjoy music as well, and have the capabilities to record their playing. This not only builds confidence but is an invaluable source of feedback that I find is often overlooked. As early as possible, I try to have my students play along to either a cover song or play along with me, in order to develop skills on the instrument that are practical, meaningful, and fun. Read More