Drum Lessons in Upper West Side, NY

Instruments: Drums

Through my years of lessons and practice, I've narrowed down the fundamentals into two books based around Rock and Jazz: Ultimate Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice and Advanced Techniques for the modern drummer by Jim Chapin. I also teach rudiments through the practice pad to sharpen control and speed when playing drumset. Through these books and rudiments you'll build a solid foundation that will make learning more advanced grooves or fills easier to play. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Music Djembe

My teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering both technical proficiency and creative expression. To achieve this, I employ a combination of established techniques and personalized approaches: Using the George L. Stone stick control book as a foundational tool, I promote limb independence and improve technical skills. This classic method helps students develop precise control and coordination, essential for any percussionist. Understanding that each student is unique, I create customized exercises that cater to their individual strengths and areas for improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Music Djembe

For beginner students, I typically start with the book Syncopation by Ted Reed. From this book, students learn basic rhythmic concepts and how to read them, and they develop the coordination to play them on snare drum and drum set. Then, I teach my students the 26 basic rudiments that all drummers must know. After that, I teach my students different types of ethnic musical traditions from all over the world. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Though I do not have a long extensive list of past students and decades of teaching, I am no stranger to the act. I worked helping the more novice drummers in my schools jazz and pep bands to play up to snuff, and also worked closely with an aspiring drummer to bring him from complete beginner to competent enough to play in his church group and join his own band! Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing the drums since age 10. Starting out playing rock and roll but quickly started playing Jazz, Latin, Samba, and Show Tunes. After graduating high school, I went to attend Montclair State University's Jazz program. After College I quickly got my masters degree from New York University in Jazz studies as well, where I studied with some of the most important people in modern music, including but not limited to: Lenny White, Lenny Pickett, John Scofield, Alan Ferber, Billy Dummond, Tony Moreno, and more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Synthesizer Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I am an active performer and educator in the NYC area. I graduated Cum Lade from The City College of NY and received a Bachelors degree of fine arts in Jazz performance. I love sharing my enthusiasm for life and music and teaching is my way to give back to future generations who will shape society and culture. I have been fortunate to travel the world playing music in places like Denmark, Finland, Cape Verde, Colombia and all over the United States in places like The Kennedy Center, Millennium Stage in Chicago and the Lincoln Center just to name a few. 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