Drum Lessons in Windsor, CT

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I believe that every student should learn how to read sheet music for his/her particular instrument. I think that learning basic rudiments and basic beats of various styles is beneficial to the student. That being said, I think that the lesson should be based on the student's goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

Through my time both as a student and educator there has always been an over arching philosophy to balance out priorities of progress and achievement with fun and sheer enjoyment. I can remember times where music for me, became not what it is intended to be because of the stress and anxiety that I would sometimes encounter in practice and performance settings. Now, I don't mean to say stress and added pressure is never a good thing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The way I learned is the way I teach. I was taught the same way multiple ways and because of this I can give students different avenues to learn the same thing. So if they don't understand it in A, or B, I still have C, and D as a back up. I try to include the student to help navigate their own lesson plan and figure out what they want to focus on. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I began teaching in 2001, as my touring schedule began to subside. I began visiting students in their homes, building a roster of over 40 weekly lessons that remained full with a waiting list. All students participated in many school bands, NYSSMA competitions (which I have also judged), and extra-curricular musical efforts, some have become professional, with several currently touring and recording nationally with original acts.   I love teaching all levels; the joy of introducing drumming to a new student is as satisfying as sharing afro-cuban poly-rhythmic ideas with an advance player. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion

For beginning students I run through a personalized lesson plan that caters to the students learning abilities and their pace of learning. I strongly believe in the use of a metronome and the versatility of percussion rudiments so I usually have most beginning students start there. As they progress through their concept of time and technique has improved I will then suggest to parents (if the student is interested) that their child moves on to the drum set where I bring them through the Time Functioning book by Gary Chaffee. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Conga

After graduating from the Conservatory, I taught privately and performed in the Boston area as well as touring throughout the United states. After moving to Maine, I was hired to teach private lessons and assist with faculty and student performances at Colby College. In addition to teaching at Colby, I performed with orchestras, jazz ensembles, pop bands and African drum ensembles in Maine & Europe. Currently, I am living in Connecticut and teach at Miss Porter's School and privately at my home studio, as well as performing with a jazz group and a pipe & drum marching band. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Fresh Approach. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. I also develop individual curriculum based on student's short and long term goals. Read More