Drum Lessons in Sea Cliff, NY

Instruments: Drums

I've been passionate about teaching drums since I was in college, and I was thankful to have great instructors during my formative years that gave me a great foundation for getting new drummers started in a way that is fun, effective, and non-intimidating. A solid foundation in snare drum technique and basic sight-reading is important for all beginners, but I also find it very effective to teach the drums through learning songs with my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

My main goal is to make each student as passionate about this incredible instrument called the drumset. And why should they be? This is one of the only instruments that uses all limbs simultaneously! Imagine how many rhythms, sounds and melodies can be created? Endless! Drums are the heart of musical styles all around the world. whether it's jazz,samba, reggae or rock, drums are what makes everything sound so good! Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Music Djembe

My teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering both technical proficiency and creative expression. To achieve this, I employ a combination of established techniques and personalized approaches: Using the George L. Stone stick control book as a foundational tool, I promote limb independence and improve technical skills. This classic method helps students develop precise control and coordination, essential for any percussionist. Understanding that each student is unique, I create customized exercises that cater to their individual strengths and areas for improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

2011-2012: Teaching Assistant, San Jose State University 2010-present: Piano, percussion, and voice teacher with Musika 2010: Substitute accompanist at Willow Glen United Methodist Church 2008-2009: Accompanist for James Lick High School 2007-present: Organist/Pianist for Santa Teresa Hills Presbyterian Church 2006-7: Accompanist for Scotts Valley Unified School District 2005-2006: Accompanist and Teaching Assistant with Cabrillo Youth Choir 2005: Composer and Percussionist for "Oedipus Rex," Cabrillo Stage; Substitute Accompanist at St. Joseph's Church in Capitola, California 2004: Accompanist with the Santa Cruz Summer Singers 2003: Teaching Assistant for History of Western Art Music, University of California, Santa Cruz 2000-2001: Teaching Assistant and Tutor in music theory, musicianship, piano, and world music studies at Cabrillo College 1998: Began working as a freelance piano teacher and keyboard player Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching experience started while in college. I began teaching a couple of students and friends private lessons. It was sparse but definitively gave me an good idea of how it was to be some sort of a coach to help find the "inner drummer" in my students. After graduating from Berklee, I stayed in Boston and taught drumset, percussion, and piano at the Boston School of Music. It was a much more formal way of teaching, and I enjoyed that experience very much, and it made me realize even more that teaching is very natural and rewarding to me--from the early stages of developing a curriculum, to carrying it out while making it fun and accessible,to seeing the students having fun playing live shows. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time over 20 years ago. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that teaching a combination of various musical styles can go a long way in helping students thoroughly enjoy drumming and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga

One of the many ways I begin a lesson with a student is by asking them what type of music they enjoy listening to and playing. Once we have this initial discussion, I begin to build the foundation for the lesson plan and my teaching. For example, if a student mentions they enjoy playing Rock and Roll, I will begin with that particular style and simplify it for them. As a music instructor, I like to listen to my students play and then address the areas that need to be addressed with them. Read More