Drum Lessons in North Brookfield, MA

Instruments: Voice Drums

My lessons for vocalists are divided into two sections: technique and repertoire. For singers, breath management skills are of primary importance as this directly affects intonation. I like to begin with Anne Peckham's The Contemporary Singer. My students can choose any songs they would like to sing while we work on musicianship skills including expression and lyrical phrasing. Singers who want to study jazz and improvisation use one or more of my pedagogical texts on scat singing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I have been playing guitar for approximately 15 years.  Over those years I have played many different styles, playing different instruments in different bands, from open mics to big venues all over the country.  I love playing music and love helping others discover their love as well.  One note worthy teaching gig I’ve had was working for a company in Nassau County, NY teaching guitar and music theory to developmentally challanged adults in a day program.  There is no musician I will turn away; my focus is guitar, but I have many instruments and can introduce the basics for many such as drums, violin, viola, cello, piano, bass guitar, as well as composition and arrangment.  I have worked with many bands, ensembles, and chamber groups, and would love the opportunity to help you achieve your musical goals.  Whatever your musical interests, I'll help you get to where you want to go. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I believe that every student should learn how to read sheet music for his/her particular instrument. I think that learning basic rudiments and basic beats of various styles is beneficial to the student. That being said, I think that the lesson should be based on the student's goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion

In my ongoing experience as a student I have learned that drum lessons, or any formal instruction on something artistic, must be representative of the art itself. To sit a young/beginning drummer down at a practice pad all day and force him/her to learn the basics, is to stifle that persons passion and desire to play the instrument. Of course, technique and basic drumming knowledge is of utmost importance, but it doesnt mean that real music cant be involved in a first lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Drums

Having said that, possibly an even more pressing skill would be to be equppied, physically and intelectually, to play along with an impromtu music session, or "jam." If, say, a former clarinet student of mine should find him or herelf in the company of a strumming acoustic guitarist, it is my hope that they will be condfident and able to contribute musically and sensibly without the need for sheet music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I use a wide range of teaching materials for my lessons, and customize my lesson plans based on the skill level of the student, instrument of choice and areas of interest. I prefer a multi-faceted curriculum of method books, reading materials, listening assignments, stylistic studies, and live performance. This kind of balanced diet will help the student develop rudimental, technical, and reading ability, along with creativity and musicality. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Fresh Approach. Once the student has progressed to have a 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 also develop individual curriculum based on student's short and long term goals. Read More