Drum Lessons in Simsbury, CT

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Conga

My approach to teaching is to try and understand each students level of musicianship and evaluate their weaknesses and strengths. I believe that repetition and the reduction of speed are essential for learning, mastering and remembering technique and the nuances of music. I encourage each student to explore the style or genre of music that is most appealing to them. As well as experiment and persevere through new challenges of unfamiliar works or styles, such as classical, jazz, African and Latin/Cuban. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

The student decides how fast he/she will progress by practicing very hard, or by working at a more moderate pace. Once again, I always participate in the learning process, as this method of teaching will enhance the private lesson, and a mutual enjoyment and respect will develop! The student must convey to me what he/she desires to focus on, and there will be a "win/win" situation which is always preferred. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I am friendly, fun, outgoing and encouraging. I will find student strength's, pinpoint and work on any weaknesses, and enjoyably introduce necessary topics in a musically progressive order. I will never yell at or talk down to a student. Any behavioral challenges will be discussed with parents. I do not skip steps. I accept differing techniques of all accomplished drummers and will help the student use the tried-and-true, explore the many variations, and help develop their own style and voice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

2011-2012: Teaching Assistant, San Jose State University 2010-present: Piano, percussion, and voice teacher with Musika 2010: Substitute accompanist at Willow Glen United Methodist Church 2008-2009: Accompanist for James Lick High School 2007-present: Organist/Pianist for Santa Teresa Hills Presbyterian Church 2006-7: Accompanist for Scotts Valley Unified School District 2005-2006: Accompanist and Teaching Assistant with Cabrillo Youth Choir 2005: Composer and Percussionist for "Oedipus Rex," Cabrillo Stage; Substitute Accompanist at St. Joseph's Church in Capitola, California 2004: Accompanist with the Santa Cruz Summer Singers 2003: Teaching Assistant for History of Western Art Music, University of California, Santa Cruz 2000-2001: Teaching Assistant and Tutor in music theory, musicianship, piano, and world music studies at Cabrillo College 1998: Began working as a freelance piano teacher and keyboard player Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I've actually written and produced my own music theory book that was in all Borders stores before they closed down. I've learned a few methods and I try to incorporate them all unless the student or parents wants something specific. My method is a method where I can teach 1 thing countless ways. I love my students to learn theory because it is a very important backbone to music. Some people can play instruments without ever really kwoing what they are playing or understand the theory behind it, and I think it holds them back from truely being creative and understanding of music.    With my methods students will be able to play from any genre, any book, and hopefully will be able to create their own music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I believe that every student should learn how to read sheet music for his/her particular instrument. I think that learning basic rudiments and basic beats of various styles is beneficial to the student. That being said, I think that the lesson should be based on the student's goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching experience is based on the 16+ years I have playing. I was based out of a gospel environment, and moved further into almost EVERY other genre. I have been teaching for about 7 years now. Most of my many accomplishments, and stages include the Prudential Center, Radio City Music Hall, and more! I have had the pleasure to accompany Pastor Marvin Sapp, Marvin Winans, Lady Temaine Hawkins, Bishop William Murphy, Bishop Albert Jameson, and many more! Read More