Drum Lessons in South, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My approach to teaching starts with the rudiments. Every Student of mine has to have a good grasp on what stickings are avalible to them. Following the studies of rudiments, i will teach them about note values and reading music notation. Once they have a fair understanding of the fundamentals, i will then begin to assign homework where they can read whole peices of music and scores. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

On the first lesson, I like to help students create realistic, long-term goals for themselves. Then the student and I develop a plan to help them achieve them. Learning tools include method books, recordings of the lesson, and playing along with me. I also make solo pieces available, and encourage the student to participate in local recitals. My lessons generally follow the county public school's music curriculum and include rhythmic and melodic dictation, ear training, sightreading, theory and song form. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I'm a performer and educator motivated most by the flash of joy I see in students' faces when they first grasp a new musical concept. With a global perspective on music cultivated by my background performing Brazilian music and American Jazz since childhood, and further bolstered by a B.A. in Anthropology: Ethnomusicology from Ithaca College, I have been a full time touring musician for the last 10 years. In addition to mainstage festival appearances all over the country, I have been lucky enough to teach clinics and master classes in percussion at top conservatories and universities such as Oberlin College & Georgetown University, as well as workshops in high schools, middle schools, & elementary schools all over the US. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching approach focuses on fundamentals of technique, grooves, taste, and good timekeeping. I am interested in a student becoming a good listener and being able to play a variety of musical styles. I integrate rudiments, reading, drum fills, solo ideas, improvisation, and developing a unique style. I use a variety of methods, including skills I heard as a pro drummer on stage in the studio. I make use of books and other lessons depending on the ability level of the student , but I rely on classics like "Stick Control," "Syncopation" and "Accents and Rebounds". Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I want my students to discover their own voice on the drums, to find their own rhythms and express themselves authentically. Technical proficiency is important, of course, but it's only one part of the equation. I believe in nurturing a love of music that goes hand-in-hand with technical skills. By encouraging exploration and experimentation, I help my students tap into their creativity and discover the therapeutic power of drumming. It's about finding joy in the process, building confidence, and using the drums as a means of self-discovery. Read More

Instruments: Drums

With beginner students of all ages, I start with the Elementary Drum Method Book by Roy Burns, Ultimate Realistic Rock Drum Method book by Carmine Appice, and the Drum Rudiment Dictionary by Jay Wanamaker. I am a fan of helping my students learn their favorite songs, and will take time to go over the songs, bar by bar. Once the first 3 books are mastered you will move up to intermediate drum techniques, and studies to assist in developing total limb independence. Read More