Drum Lessons in Brentwood, TN

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

“Russ is one of the absolute best students I have ever had in my long teaching career at Berklee College of Music. Russ is very talented, smart, highly disciplined and open minded as a musician. Having Russ as a teacher will be an experience where the student will receive an effective, focused, and open minded approach to the students individual musical needs and interests.” -Dave Weigert, Drum Instructor, Berklee College of Music. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I studied music in middle school and high school through wind ensemble, jazz band, marching band, show choir, and private lessons. During this time I also attended music camps at McNally Smith and Berklee College of Music. I then moved to Nashville and graduated from Belmont University's School of Music. In Nashville, I have played with many independent artists across multiple genres as well as toured with bands across the country. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

I always approach teaching on an individual basis. I find out what the student loves about music, and what made him or her want to learn in the first place. We set realistic goals for pace and have fun. I often mix traditional work with fun work. For example, alongside conventional ways to learn melody and harmony, I'll tie those lessons into specific songs or pieces of music that the student likes, to show the relevance of the material and the importance it has, at the same time keeping the student interested. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching does not cut corners. I often tell young students to watch the movie "Karate Kid" and play close attention to the "Wax on, wax off" scenes. (Fortunately, there are practice supplements using play along tracks that make this process more fun and less tedious). I not teach "songs", but I do teach the language of drumming and the language of music. I am an advanced reader and all of my students will be required to read at least some music, however I do understand that many students learn by ear. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar

For beginners, I usually start with teaching you basic technique on the instrument. For example, how to hold the instrument, notes on the fretboard, how to count and play at the same time, etc. Once the student progresses, I begin to teach you more intermediate techniques, music theory, ear training, and learning songs. For advanced students, I try and give more in-depth material to be able to play the music that you love to play. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Every student is different. The first lesson I get a read on my student, and find out what music makes them excited. I also find out what their goals are with music. For example, some students may want to be better for school band, and some students may just want to be able to pay with their favorite songs. I teach my students how to read drum set music and provide charts for songs they are learning. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

My musical pursuits started in the 5th grade when I began playing in school band. Throughout Middle and High School I played in All County Jazz and Symphonic band. Upon my graduation I was accepted into Berklee College of Music on a merit-based scholarship and received my Bachelors of Music in Drumset Performance. It was at Berklee that I also began my teacher career and discovered the rewarded endeavor of sharing my passion for music with others. Read More