Drum Lessons in Phoenix, IL

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Keyboard

I saw the "light bulb" go off above his head and the lesson went from tears to cheers! From there, I taught at Van Moody School of music where I met students of all types from those with autism to those that were exceptionally gifted in music. Parents and students alike that I come across in my daily doings in the streets hug me and compliment me on how great of a teacher and influence I had on them and their children. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

For beginning students and youth, I typically start with music theory and proper positioning. I have found an easy method for playing songs almost immediately. For students that desire sight reading as a priority, I will start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and walk them through exercises that will keep them sharp and focused. For adults, I want to learn their goal and their niche. I will structure my course around their needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

One of the most valuable things I learned from Jim Campbell, my main professor/teacher/mentor during my undergraduate career at the University of Kentucky, is that a great teacher does not necessarily need to have already mastered the art form themselves - in fact, as it is said that the best leaders are great followers, I strongly believe that the best teachers are great students, even in a private lesson setting. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Every student is different. Rather than approach each of my students with a pre-existing teaching methods/style, I take the approach of catering to each of one my students specifics needs. I want my students to always feel comfortable and to tell me what they want to learn from me. I also do not believe in pushing things on my students, such as a certain musical style or genre, just because it's something I what them to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Bass Guitar Organ

One of the best things to experience is watching someone progress. I began teaching because I wanted to help others and share my musical abilities. During lessons one of my main focuses is to promote encouragement. After encouragement is passion, because with passion come everything else. When you have passion and love what you’re playing you have fun. And when you have fun you stick to it. I help students find passion by catering to their needs. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I began teaching private drum set lessons during my first year as an Eastern Illinois University student. I taught lessons for just about three years while in college. At one point, I had about 14 students to teach and fit into my busy schedule. I've learned a lot from that experience and now know how to manage time efficiently with a heavy teaching load. Teaching is a very rewarding experience especially when I can see the progress in my student's performance. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard Djembe

For every instrument I teach, I always focus on tone primarily. To have whatever instrument the student is learning, be it drumset, piano, or voice, it is of utmost importance to me to have them re-sounding the whole body of the instrument with confidence, and with passion. When we start from this place, I then work on rudiments/scales, and aim to endow students with basic vocabulary, so that they may become fluent on their instruments. Read More