Piano Lessons in Sugar Land, TX

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Djembe

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
I have always thought the hardest thing to master on drumset is true four-limb independence. Styles such as jazz, salsa, and many Indian and African traditions require a high-level of proficiency of their rhythm instruments. So much slow and often tedious practicing is required to merely scratch the surface. It is difficult enough to work on two and three limb independence patterns and achieve a degree of fluidity. Four-limb independence requires an almost meditative, zen-like level of patience in your practice routine.

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
I like to think I have some pretty unorthodox teaching methods but inevitably using a great method book is one of the best ways to be inspired by new ideas. For drumset I often start with Tommy Igoe's Groove Essentials and a Hal Leonard-type instructional book coupled with the classic Stick Control by George L. Stone. For voice training I have set warmups and exercises that are almost immediately implemented including the Vocal Ease app among other tools. For piano I inevitably supplement with Hanon exercises at some point. All of these methods have one thing in common: making the essentials of music fun and achievable while fueling creativity.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I don't often dwell on past accomplishments but there have been some notable musical experiences in my life. One of the moments I am most proud of is making first chair in Community College All-State Percussion and Jazz Band in the same year. The moment I found out the news instantly validated the countless hours I had spent practicing. Another ongoing accomplishment I am proud of is being a lead singer and drummer at the same time in my own band. It constantly challenges my abilities and stretches my musical awareness. Music (and art in general) has always had the ability to focus my time and energy in a way few other things can.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
I believe singing chose me from an early age. It was a natural extension of myself and I was constantly interested in learning more melodies, songs and lyrics. Periodic voice lessons helped me to refine my technique and singing live helps me enjoy music in a very deep way. As for drums and percussion, I chose them because they are a part of almost every style of music in some way and because I wanted to be like the drummers I heard on my favorite albums growing up. Between singing and drumming I feel like almost every style of music is covered.

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