Drum Lessons in Van Nuys, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My first emphasis is that you have to like what you're playing. I really try to focus on what music gets the student excited. For some of them, it comes quickly. Others it might take a while, and that is okay. Once I find the switch that engages the student's interest, that is my focus. I really emphasize getting students to read music and also understand the key components of music theory, so that they understand what it is they are playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Organ Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

I am a professional musician with 15 years of experience, performing at the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Studio 54 and all around the world. As an educator, I've taught K-12 for the last seven years, focusing on modern band instruments like guitar, bass, drums and keyboard. My curriculum at school is inspired by School of Rock, the movie, and focuses on teaching students the instrumetns and music of the modern rock band. Read More

Instruments: Drums Double Bass

What sets me apart from other teachers is my performance experience as an instructor/clinician.I have performed educational clinics at several universities, colleges, schools and music stores throughout the country.My knowledge and experience, unlimited 24/7 student support, follow-up and passion for music education is unparalleled. I am the author of the education instructional video series titled, The True Basics of Drumming.My video series outlines some of my teaching and playing methods.My ideas about the drums and drumming are always expanding with the main focus always being on how to have more fun playing drums. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

My teaching experience dates back to my time in college as I spent many hours working with high-school marching bands and giving individual lessons on drum set and battery percussion. Once I moved to Los Angeles, the focus of my teaching switched to private lessons in students homes and rented studio spaces. After graduating from the Los Angeles College of Music, I was asked back as a substitute to teach their sight reading classes, to assist in styles classes such as Rock and Jazz, and as an assistant running the console in their "Recording for Musicians" class. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trombone Drums Synthesizer Ukulele Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

After I first received my Bachelor's Degree from CSU Fullerton, I opted to showcase my original music through distinct outlets. One of the resulting projects, themattsmithneujazztrio, has recorded three full-length records; my other project, JUICEBOX, has recorded two. I gained a masters of music in jazz drum set from California Institute of the Arts, where I was honored to record my own composition for the CalArts, 30th Annual Jazz CD at Capitol Records. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Recorder

From Newbreed to Chapin to Afro-Cuban Rhythm for drum set, there are many methods that are worth exploring. That being said, sometimes learning songs (covers) can be the best way to learn quickly and it can be a lot of fun. Something I've done many times too is writing precise exercises for students in order to address and target specific needs. Let's say a student has difficulty with his ghost notes on his/her left hand, I can easily come up with fun exercises in order to speed up the progress and get improvements for that student. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

Theory I can teach music theory, harmony and reading in any level. These skills are tremendously helpful and necessary if the student is serious about music, but totally optional for the hobby musician. Audition prep I know a lot about most auditions in the country and what the academic world of music looks for. I can help you prepare for your college/ conservatory audition working on necessary skills and repertoire. Read More