Drum Lessons in Brentwood, TN

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I began playing drums in the school band in 1987 at the age of 10 in the Pittsburgh, PA area. I took a strong interest in music throughout school and played in the marching band and concert band through to graduation. I played in a rock band with my brother until 1997. I majored in classical performance in college and eventually obtained a master's degree in that field by the age of 24. I performed in various symphony orchestras for more than a decade. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

Soon after, I started playing in cover bands and expanding my repertoire. In high school I won two downbeat awards for best pop/rock drummer (2004) and outstanding performance for jazz drumming (2005). In high school I played in various touring groups, and started Berklee in 2009. Since Berklee, I have worked on Celebrity Cruise lines as a drummer for jazz and rock bands, as well as playing for the theatrical performances and musical reviews. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has started to grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to 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. I do try to maintain a balance of classical music, modern music, and music theory. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

Very few musicians are virtuosos and can pick up an instrument day one! I require metronome skill practice...you are expected to have excellent meter as a Percussionist! For beginners, I'll want to teach basic music reading and rudiments on the snare drum along with Metronome. Did mention you'll need to PRACTICE...with the metronome:-) Experienced and Advanced students will tell me what they want to be taught. We will then develop a plan to challenge your skills. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

Teaching is a passion of mine. Getting to share experiences with my students is truly rewarding and I know it is something I will pursue for the rest of my life. My teaching style is enthusiastic and engaging. I beleive no single approach or method works for every student and having the ability to adapt is an essential skill for developing lasting student/teacher relationships. I accomplish this with each student by underlining expectations through short term, mid term, and long term goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Djembe

My instructional method does not lean toward one method book for instruction. There is however a useful combination of selected literature, excerpts, solos, exercises and play alongs in addition to anything the student wants or has to work on. I teach technique and fundamentals that are applicable to all styles, not just one particular style. I'm teaching you to play music. Not a collection of beats and fills. Standards are met and individual goals are not ignored. 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