Drum Lessons in Whitsett, NC

Instruments: Drums

Music is, and should be fun! It is also hard work, but when done right, these two go hand in hand. No one should leave a lesson feeling discouraged, personally or musically. This is why I work hard to understand what each individual student's goals are, and quickly assess how he or she may achieve those goals. Additionally, not every student learns the same way, and I strive to ascertain and respond to each individual's needs. Read More

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

As stated previously, one of my greatest joys is seeing a student grow and thrive with a musical experience. I understand that not every one of my students will want to pursue music in their life, but music can bolster character, discipline, and creativity-- no matter their age. My methods include basic goal setting, encouraging and providing performance opportunity (no matter how small), and I also let the student's interests lead the way. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I work out of various Drum Set method books, which at first I give page copies for students. Once students are acclimated to how lessons work (and sure they want to continue) I encourage them to purchase the book(s) we are working out of. I try to work out of books for reading, but most other learning I like to take on personally. Books are great for learning and seeing new material, but they don't do much for a performance, writing parts or learning songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion

For beginning drum students, I typically like to start with the Percussive Arts Society sheet of rudiments to ensure a solid technical background as the student progresses. After that, we move on to simple reading and other drumming fundamental concepts including limb coordination, fills, phrasing and articulation, etc. With older students, I find it helpful to try and begin with what they are interested and comfortable in playing. This allows me to find connections and build lesson plans specifically for the individual. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I am a strong believer that students should learn how to read music, they should learn proper technique, and that they should maintain a regular practice schedule. Lessons are geared towards the individual student's abilities and interests. I draw from a wide variety of teaching resources and authors, such as Joel Rothman, Jim Chapin, Rick Latham, Frank Briggs, Carmine Appice, George Stone, Charlie Wilcoxen, David Garibaldi, Rick Dior, Les DeMerle. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Latin Percussion

I have been playing the drum kit for 20 years, and have taught drum kit and snare drum for 10. Throughout high school I played in every ensemble that had a percussion section or drum kit. After graduation I attended Berklee College of Music in Boston.I have been performing live since I was in middle school in many ensemble settings ranging from jam band to metal. My principle style is jazz (bop/post-bop). Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Drums Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Djembe

I create my own lesson plans (and some materials) specific to each student. Some standard books I use are Alfred's Drum Method book 1, The New Breed, Portraits in Rhythm, The Drummer's Complete Vocabulary to name a few. The books are necessary for developing music literacy, however I remind students that the pages don't make sound!!! Developing a discerning ear is paramount in my approach. Therefore we do a lot of listening and I engage students in dialogue for them to develop a personalized mental image of what they are trying to play. Read More