Drum Lessons in Thornton, IL

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

It is very rewarding to see my students develop a passion for music and excel at their craft. 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: Piano Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard

I began teaching in my sophomore year of high school. I was asked to be a student teacher at the summer camps hosted at the School of Rock Chicago. I learned a great deal as I taught rock songs to kids of all ages, prepared them to record original music, and helped direct their performance. I fell in love with the process of engaging a students learning style and figuring out how to relate to each student as an individual. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

The Symphony Band recorded two albums with world-renowned composer Stephen Melillo, which Andrew was a performing percussionist on both, and the Principle Percussionist for the Whispers on the Wind album. The Symphony Band also recorded Alfred Reed's "Symphony for Brass and Percussion" for Alfred Music Group during the time Andrew was the Principle Percussionist. Andrew has also competed in the PASIC Collegiate Individual Tenor Solo Competition and has placed in the Top Ten four times, the Top Five Twice, along with a 2nd Place finish in 2008. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I started teaching towards the end of high school and continued in college and beyond! I found it beneficial to be teaching students while still being a student myself. Having great teachers in my life has shaped my own approach to teaching. I discovered that when I was able to study what I was truly excited about, my capacity to learn and improve my craft increased exponentially! To that end, I encourage students to bring in original material as well as "covers" that they are interested in to build a repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use humor and my own experiences to first establish a caring environment in which the student can be comfortable. Once that connection is established, I like to find out the students interests and make sure a personal goal is set that we can achieve together. There has to be something exciting the student can achieve in order to develop self-motivation. I employ a number of tactics to stimulate self-expression and problem solving skills, as independent work and practice is crucial in any musician's journey. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

I teach lessons to any grade/age group. I have an extremely open mind to teaching and music in general, so nothing goes out the door in terms of philosophy, however, I've come to realize that some methods work better than others. That said, I tailor my attention and focus as an educator to the needs of student I'm teaching in front of me. I don't consider the student who just walked out of the lesson or the student who is coming in next. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Mindfulness, patience, understanding, and passion are a few words that describe my teaching style. Creating a respectful and creative space for my students to learn is very important to me. I believe if a teacher better understands how a student learns, and what they're passionate about, the quicker the student will improve. Each student, with my help, keeps a handwritten log of what we work on in each lesson, making home practice more productive and organized. Read More