Drum Lessons in Spinnerstown, PA

Instruments: Drums

I try to cater my methods to the individual students goals and personality, however ultimately utilizing the same materials. Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone is a great tool for drummers. It offers simple, effective patterns for developing technique, skill, and vocabulary. It can be used intensively or casually as we borrow concepts and patterns to work with. Rudiments are the foundation of quality drumming and they can be developed using this book as well. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Djembe

Every drum student is different so I customize each lesson to fit the particular students needs and goals. I always start out with fundamentals and rudiments on the snare drum, Focusing on stick position posture and proper technique. Once these basics are established we move onto a basic drum set method book covering notation, basic drumbeats and drum fills. From there we branch out into various styles of drumming, very often we move to jazz drumming from there as that is usually the first time students are offered to play drum set in their school music program. Read More

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

For me, the biggest thrill as a teacher comes from watching the enthusiasm on the face of my student who is having fun during their lesson. Creating a positive environment, where the student can learn at a pace that will suit their needs, experience, and goals is one of my highest priorities. Providing each student with a step-by-step curriculum that will give them the necessary skills to develop into a proficient musician is key to keeping the student motivated. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I teach my students to read music as well as to play by ear. I host 2 recitals each year. We learn one song start to finish and I hire a professional band to learn and perform the songs with my students at a local establishment or at my studio. I encourage all of my students to perform with our recital band. As far as books, I prefer to use the "new Breed", by Gary Chester, the ''Art of Bop Drumming'', by John Riley , and the ''encyclopedia of reading rhythms'', by Garry Hess, but there are many other books I recommend for specific needs. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

In addition to drum set, I also teach djembe (West African), bodhran (Celtic), doumbek (Middle Eastern) and conga (Afro-Cuban). My favorite thing about teaching is watching students develop into creative musicians and finding their own voice. My playing and teaching has always been based in tradition, but not bound by it. I have found that keeping a relaxed, fun atmosphere during lessons allows students to learn at their own pace. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use a variety of methods for my teaching style. I usually have a few method books that I bring to a first lesson, and after meeting the student I will decide on the best one. Once the student has progressed and shows some motivation to be slightly challenged, I'll introduce "popular" music so that the student feels a sense of accomplishment! Music is associated with movies, radio, etc., so to be able to play something recognizable is exciting for the student and the teacher. Read More