Drum Lessons in Somerville, VA

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

I typically begin my lessons with a 30 to 45-minute session to introduce music theory and the chosen instrument. For beginner students, I use a combination of the James Bastien and Alfred's Basic methods to teach foundational music theory. Based on the student’s instrument of choice, I supplement these lessons with additional materials tailored to practice and performance. For adult students, I prioritize their interests, adapting my lessons to make the learning experience engaging, enjoyable, and relevant to their musical goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I love method books and written resources. Most of the books I use are specific to the goals of the individual student. So below is a list of a few books that I like: Syncopation by Ted Reed Stick Control by George Stone Patterns series by Gary Chaffee The New Breed by Gary Chester Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice The Art of Bop Drumming by John Riley The Commandments of RB Drumming by Zoro Future Sounds by Dave Garibaldi Four Way Coordination by Marvin Dahlgreen and Elliot Fine Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer by Jim Chapin Studio and Big Band Drumming by Steve Houghton Universal Rhythms by Dave DiCenso Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

Drums: Pad , Drumset, and occassional Hand-drumming sessions. Classical Staff instruction in drums, I use a different methodology here , (Guitar being a new-age music theory approach.) Guitar: Acoustic, Acoustic-Electric, Electric, with a pick or without a pick styles. I teach tablature and diagrams and charts. I can get you through novice on into intermediate play with classical staff, but if you want to go advanced, stick with the tabs and such for the while. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Drums Piccolo Acoustic Guitar

I absolutely love getting students really excited about their instrument. I like to show videos of high level playing and introduce a wide variety of genres and styles while I find exactly what it is that inspires the student to play. My lesson structure normally consists of a warm up, rudiment/sticking work, reading or playing exercise and new concepts, then work on a song. I really try to get my students playing along with tracks so they can hear how drums sound in a band setting and apply it to their playing! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style has been described as one that rewards hard work and dedication, but leaves room for experimentation and fun. I believe that each student has unique gifts to offer the world, and it is my job to uncover them through a combination of connecting to the individual as a person and allowing their personality and aptitude to shine. My goal is always to inspire my students to want to learn, instead of fostering an environment where they feel forced into it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

In addition to having performed on thousands of stages around the world over the last 15 years, I have been teaching private lessons in percussion for the last 10 years. I have experience teaching individual and group lessons, in some cases with groups of over 50 students. In addition to lessons which address the practical concerns involved in beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels of drums, percussion, & cello, I teach lessons in structuring performances (aimed mostly at bands looking to take their live production to the next level), prepping for studio time, tailoring performances to their setting (studio, venues small & large, workshops), and techniques for learning large volumes of material quickly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I am a music instructor and performer (as Min. of Music), with a passion for music, the fun in musicianship the a collaboration of musical instruments.  I began teaching myself at the age of 9.  Then furthered my understanding of music through high school, and college.  I believe music should be fun to learn, while leaving a proud feeling after you have acheived playing a complete musical piece - which will turn into performance (your chance to get audience to feel your passion with admiration). Read More