Drum Lessons in Woodstock, MD

Instruments: Drums

I have been teaching for 10 years on various levels. I've taught part-time in high schools as a college student, music stores, as well as privately. I love to build a curriculum that is specific to each student's needs. I.e. I like to work with students and help them reach the goals that they have set for themselves. As we continue towards that journey, I create new good exercises to attack problem areas that the student may have along the ride towards their goal. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

Whether in a group or individually, I teach in a relaxed, interactive, and respectful manner, allowing students to progress at their natural rate and using their and my enthusiasm to propel us, rather than any requirement for content or material to be covered.  Lessons become retreats rather than drudgery. As I said above in "Methods", I do not start with books or sheet music. I consider myself a Pied Piper, there to inspire the love of music, love of playing, and love of the many different instruments a drummer and percussionist can play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I'm a performer and educator motivated most by the flash of joy I see in students' faces when they first grasp a new musical concept. With a global perspective on music cultivated by my background performing Brazilian music and American Jazz since childhood, and further bolstered by a B.A. in Anthropology: Ethnomusicology from Ithaca College, I have been a full time touring musician for the last 10 years. In addition to mainstage festival appearances all over the country, I have been lucky enough to teach clinics and master classes in percussion at top conservatories and universities such as Oberlin College & Georgetown University, as well as workshops in high schools, middle schools, & elementary schools all over the US. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

During his time in school, Mike performed in a number of different groups. He has played in situations as varied as Orchestra, Big-band, African Drum Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Combo Jazz Groups, Gamelan Orchestra, Afro-Cuban Ensembles, and Mallet Ensembles. He also performed in freelance rock, jazz, jam, and improvisational groups. Mike began playing at age 7 on both piano and drums and started performing at age 14. Later he studied voice in college and picked up the banjo as another instrument to have in his repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Organ Conga Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Alfred Piano Basics. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to work from Czerny and introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

Focusing on these key elements coupled with the personal goals of the student, each player will experience a unique, fulfilling musical development. My teaching philosophy is centered on being patient, allowing students to discover their talent at their own pace. Weekly lessons paired with high yet realistic expectations have yielded great results for my students. When a student becomes aware of the control that they have over how they play, real success can be achieved. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Harmonica Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As a musician, I believe that while learning and making music it is important not only to learn the fundamental techniques required for the instrument, but to have fun while playing. Playing and making music should be an enjoyable past time for all people of all ages, without judgement because of skill level or genre. Because of these beliefs, I try to diversify my playing in all genres on many different instruments in order to remove any biases against genres, and learn the true art behind all types of music, no matter how simple it may be. Read More