Drum Lessons in Baltimore, MD

Instruments: Drums

My teaching style is a mix of fun and education. I was a student who struggled with ADD and I want to make each student's learning experience fun as the rudiments are mastered. I include drum set sheet music, and learning the student's favorite songs at their pace. If they need help with school band charts they are welcomed to bring them for study at the lesson. Bottom line - whatever you want to tackle, I strive to find the teaching method that works best for you and work in the fun. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

Driven by a desire to share my love of music with others, I embarked on a professional music career in my early twenties. I formed a cover band to gain experience and earn extra income, while simultaneously pursuing my passion for blues and rock music. My dedication and talent led me to join a professional blues/rock band, where I had the privilege of touring the East Coast and opening for renowned blues artists. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I graduated from Towson University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Performance, earning the music department's Outstanding Achievement in Music Award in 1991. From 1994-1997 I taught applied and ensemble percussion at Shepherd University and, since then, have developed a successful private teaching practice in the Baltimore/Washington area. Many of my students have achieved success at the county, state and professional levels. I am the principal drummer/percussionist at Toby's Dinner Theater in Columbia, MD and perform regularly with the DMV's premier event/party band Retrospect. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I am deeply inspired by students who are eager and motivated to learn drumming. I meet each student where they are, looking and listening for the unique learning style of each student. After i access what approaches work best based on their ability level, I design a systematic practice routine based on Technique, Vocabulary, Independence, Coordination, and Musicality. If its required I can assist in writing charts for songs. Im focused on targeting the areas where improvement is needed and to encourage and challenge students to develop discipline, good habits, while striving to improve and overcome the weakness aspects of their drumming. 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: Drums

I have an arsenal of books I may work through or recommend for students from beginner to the advanced player. However, my lessons are customized to fit each students needs. The exercises or books I may work from are usually recommended to the student after assessing where they are skill-wise, what their end goal may be, or based on what tools they like that will help them retain the information the best. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

Having relocated to the DMV, I direct the marching percussion program at Annapolis High School, substitute teaches at 7DrumCity in DC, and founded my home studio, Groh Studios, in 2018. My students have gone on to study music at Monmouth College, Eastern Illinois University, Lawrence University, McNally Smith College of Music, IUPUI, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I received my BA degree in Production Studies in the Performing Arts from Clemson University and earned my MM degree in Jazz Studies from DePaul University. Read More