Drum Lessons in Sterling, VA

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching method goes beyond just technique; it's about unlocking the inherent creativity and therapeutic potential within each student. I believe the drums can be a powerful tool for self-expression and personal growth, and I encourage my students to explore this aspect of their musical journey. While I guide them through a comprehensive curriculum covering diverse styles like rock, blues, jazz, and funk, my emphasis is on fostering a deep connection with the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Once students master these basics through the classes and the occasional take home studies, we will then work on rudiments around the whole drum set to develop freeform soloing, before moving on to Jazz and Latin beats. I ask my students to work on rudiments at home comfortably between TV commercials, and to work on the notation, reading and groove lessons for a minimum of 20 minutes per day, for low stress progression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Double Bass Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I have been teaching private lessons for 10 years. Encouraging students to practice regularly and to have fun with their instrument is essential for the learning process. I stress the importance of these two things so that the student may develop a love for music and their instrument of choice. Also, being able to teach a variety of musical styles keeps students wanting to learn. I encourage students to not only learn written pieces, but to create their own music and individual sound. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I love method books and written resources. Most of the books I use are specific to the goals of the individual student. So below is a list of a few books that I like: Syncopation by Ted Reed Stick Control by George Stone Patterns series by Gary Chaffee The New Breed by Gary Chester Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice The Art of Bop Drumming by John Riley The Commandments of RB Drumming by Zoro Future Sounds by Dave Garibaldi Four Way Coordination by Marvin Dahlgreen and Elliot Fine Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer by Jim Chapin Studio and Big Band Drumming by Steve Houghton Universal Rhythms by Dave DiCenso Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music

My teaching methods are entirely based on the current abilities and individual learning style of each individual student.  I do reference a few standard and time-tested method books for various skill levels, however, every lesson will be customized to the goals and needs of the student. I strive to keep up with current MMEA audition repertoire for those students interested in pursuing those opportunities on the local and state level. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing drums for 14 years and started when I was 10. The influence I had from other drummers that I saw was what sparked my interest in playing them. Seeing the greats like Roger Taylor of Queen, John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, or even now Matt Greiner of August Burns Red, I wanted that, but I knew I couldn't get there without practice. After taking up lessons myself, and I continue to do so even after all those years, I have learned what it takes to be a great drummer. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Drums Piccolo Acoustic Guitar

I absolutely love getting students really excited about their instrument. I like to show videos of high level playing and introduce a wide variety of genres and styles while I find exactly what it is that inspires the student to play. My lesson structure normally consists of a warm up, rudiment/sticking work, reading or playing exercise and new concepts, then work on a song. I really try to get my students playing along with tracks so they can hear how drums sound in a band setting and apply it to their playing! Read More