Drum Lessons in Taconic, CT

Instruments: Flute Drums Orchestral Percussion

I believe that the key to a student's success in music is being motivated by passion. That is why I like to tailor each student's learning experience to their own individual interests, allowing them to press forward with the particular source of inspiration that motivates them to learn. It is a healthy combination of focus and enjoyment that results in the most enriching learning experience, which is why I make sure every exercise I assign a student comes with an understanding of the distinct purpose and goal of the exercise. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

We begin by playing simply and slowly on the snare drum, focusing on stickings, control, dynamics, technique and mechanics, move the rhythms around the kit in common patterns, add bass drum and sometimes HiHat support. Meanwhile, common rock/funk/pop grooves are introduced and combined with the rhythmic exercises to achieve fluidity to playing rock repertoire. The same process is used with Triplet meter as jazz and blues styles are developed, then with world music contexts, Bossa Nova, Samba, Baiao, etc. Read More

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

My favorite piano method book for children is the Bastien Piano Basics Series. Alternately, I sometimes use the Faber & Faber Piano Adventures. For very young children (3-6) "My First Piano Adventure," a Faber publication, is my book of choice. For adults, I usually use Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course, though sometimes I skip method books and play pieces picked by the student. When teaching drums/percussion, my method books of choice are Standard of Excellence and Winning Rhythms. Read More

Instruments: Drums

We start with the basics like how to hold the drum sticks, how to read music, and how to start playing some simple basic beats. Then things become more tailored to the specific drumming needs. For example, if you are trying to learn the drums for a jazz ensemble, we can practice jazz songs together. On the other hand, if you are in a punk band we could start learning some covers and then I can teach you to write your own punk songs! 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

I expect hard work from every student I teach. While I don't expect every week to be successful (We are human for goodness sake) as long as a student gives a true honest effort we can always make progress together. I always encourage questions or comments during or after the lesson. I want every student to leave my studio feeling confident they can get sufficient work done for our next lesson. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I teach all ages and skill levels, from drumpad to drumset. No matter how young the student is, learning how to play an instrument and read music is invaluable. I help my younger students prepare for middle school and high school level orchestra, and my older students for college music auditions and solo pieces. With my adult students I help them schedule music in their busy lives. There is no reason to put off playing an instrument if it's something you always wanted to do. Read More