Drum Lessons in Oakley, CA

Instruments: Drums

A professional performer since age 15, Larry draws from a deep well of musical influence, including gospel, blues, funk, jazz and soul. These various genres have collectively shared his unique sound, his groove brand, which is in full display in his performances and music recordings. Larry's resume reads like a Whos Who list, having toured and recorded with those musicians listed above, as well as THE WHISPERS, MARTHA REEVES, THE MARVALETTES, CHARLES BROWN, BUFFY SAINT-MARIE, RANDY CRAWFORD and many more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Drums Ukulele Recorder Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

The key ingredient to learning is interest. I believe that my students need to have an interest in what they are playing so that they can keep their minds and spirits engaged. Rudiments require attention and practice, but there is much more to learning an instrument than just technique; passion also needs nurturing. If a student is really in to Star Wars, for example, I will gladly incorporate the 'Imperial March' into their rudimentary studies. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching experience dates back to 1996, when I began teaching lessons to children in at-risk communities in dance and music, while going through school in Oakland. I then continued in Stockton, CA, where I developed music and dance programs in the Recreation Centers, and later developed my own non-profit organization. I began writing my own grants to teach classes in after-school programs, and in 2013, while attending my music program, I began instucting private music classes in classical guitar, beg. piano and beg. voice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I always say that rhythm is more important than the notes. Play the right rhythm and the notes will come instead of playing every right note while sacrificing rhythm. I encourage students to make their mistakes loud, proud, and in rhythm so everyone has a better idea of what needs to be worked on most. I also emphasize isolating parts to practice and working backwards. Example: play the last two bars of the song until comfortable with it, now play the last 4 bars, last 6, last 8...etc., whole song. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion

I like students to learn their favorite songs while learning technique, such as scales and chords, as well as music theory.   Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I'm originally from New York and moved to the bay area 4 years ago. I have been playing music since I was about 5 or 6. I started early on with guitar lessons and playing trumpet through grade school. I went to see the Gypsy Kings at radio city music hall when I was about 9 or 10 with my parents. While there wasn't a drummer performing at the show, the group of guitar players where incredibly rhythmic. it made people get up and move as if they almost couldn't help it. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have taught a number of students over the years. Some are beginners, while some are more advanced players. I currently teach in a studio carved out of my garage, using a top level electronic drum set to help keep the volume down. I began accepting students as far back as 1984, and have a regular student at the present time. I have worked with him on basic technique, the rudiments, working with and without a metronome. Read More