Drum Lessons in Sherman Oaks, CA

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

When I receive a new student the first thing I do is assess where they are technically and what their interests are. From there I develop custom lesson plans that are design to improve a certain technique while learning new music. For example if a student comes in and really loves Michael Jackson's music but doesn't know how to hold the drumsticks or read music, I will give them basic exercises to improve their lack of technical ability and then we'll apply it to a song. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Djembe

I have a method in place, but my lessons often take sudden detours when we need to work on a specific task (i.e. preparing for school band auditions) at the students request. Through my encouragement, my students play gigs, talent shows, in their school concerts, etc. Some are now professional drum teachers. I teach kids with special needs, adults, and professional musicians (drummers and nondrummers). My students' parents love me because I teach kids how to sharpen focus, increase attention span, listen intently, and memorize material more efficiently. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar Music

I'm a passionate and experienced musician with a love of teaching. I have been playing drums for over 15 years. My musicianship began in the 5th grade and has continued throughout my time in high school marching band at Troy High School, where I was in the drumline for all four years. I have participated in worship bands at several local churches in Orange County and Redondo Beach, and have developed my skills both as a drummer, bass player, and audio technician during my decade and a half of experience as a church drummer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Most recently Derek was the lead trombonist of the 2018 Disneyland All-American College Band. He has recently performed with Wayne Bergeron, Gordon Goodwin, Dave Holland, Randy Brecker, Dave Liebman, Jimmy Heath, Shaun Martin, Christian Jacob, John Beasley, Troy Roberts, Frank Greene, Brian Lynch, Jeff Jarvis, Steve Houghton, Jiggs Whigham, Sal Lozano, and John Clayton. Derek has had recent performances at Dizzys Club Coca-Cola, the Smithsonian Institute, and the New World Symphony. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Recorder

I've been teaching for several years since I got out of College and it's been a rewarding experience. I love witnessing my students make progress and evolve. I love to feel and share their passion for music. I do like to have a program to ensure constant progress but I do not mind at all adapting, changing, or not following at all the program depending on the student's demands and goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My style is one that seamlessly adapts to all ages, learning styles, and backgrounds, resulting in a high student retention rate over the years. I provide an exciting and positive environment for students to not only learn fundamentals and techniques, but also to find and express their unique musical voice. As lessons progress at the student's pace, it's important to keep discovering what they love about music and what inspires them to learn (song, artist, style, musician friend). Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Accordion Ukulele Mallet Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I like to emphasize what good practice means and how it relates to my students' goals. I then teach larger musical concepts through the pieces of music that my student wants to learn in order to maintain motivation and interest- music is meant to be fun and enjoyable after all! I'm happy to head in whatever direction my student wants, whether thats continuing to learn songs, making thier own music, or delving more into music theory and intrumental techniques. Read More