Joshua B
Instruments: Drums
Styles: Jazz, Pop, Rock, Gospel, Funk, Punk
Joshua B
Instruments: Drums
Styles:
Jazz, Pop, Rock, Gospel, Funk, Punk
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
BS, Ball State University, Urban Planning Development
My name is Joshua. I recently graduated from Ball State University in Indiana. My passion for drumming began as a teenager, and I was fortunate enough to have a very supportive family who encouraged me to do what I loved. I will always be grateful for that. Given the right kind of support and teaching, I firmly believe that anyone with the drive to learn can have a very rewarding and fun experience with the drums. I’ve had lessons from some amazing instructors over the years and have overcome so many obstacles thanks to them and the support of my family. And now, I want to share my knowledge and experience with others, so that they may have a similarly rewarding journey.
Growing up, I tried a dozen different instruments before I discovered the drums. I've had six years of experience and a lot of different teachers with different teaching styles since then, and one major lesson stands out: drums are hard, but consistent, mindful practice always makes the difference. The same lesson applies to almost anything. In my college experience, it always turned out that consistent work produced the best results. Nothing turned out well if it was rushed, and only diligent routines kept me on track. I stress that same lesson in my teaching. If a student wants to improve their playing, the only way forward is through practice. So, one of the best ways to improve drumming is by practicing how to practice. This technique can be used in every aspect of the student's life and is one of the most valuable skills anyone can have.
I begin with a basic rock approach to drumming that prepares students to enter a wide range of other musical styles. The first lessons focus on the fundamentals of drumming while still placing emphasis on musicality. If the fundamentals are not framed in a musical context, it is difficult for some students to stay excited and develop a passion for the drums. Unlike other instruments which focus on melodic creation, drums are rhythmic in nature which can make the learning process dull without music. Students will learn to play along to their favorite songs at an early stage. By introducing students to concepts within their own music, the fundamentals will always be a part of every lesson, and concepts will grow and evolve alongside the student's skills.
Students will learn: • What you need to start drumming • How to stay drumming safe • Drum terminology • Setting up your drums • Tuning your drums • Proper stick grips • Hand and foot technique • Music theory and how to read drumming notation • Fundamental drumming patterns (rudiments)
My teaching style prioritizes consistent, daily practice set in a musical context. Weekly lessons keep students active and involved in their drumming education, while assigned practice exercises promote gradual but steady improvement. Assigned practice exercises are designed to improve rudiment execution, hand and foot technique, and musical sensibility. As soon as the student feels comfortable with the instrument and is ready for the challenge, I will start to include play-along tracks or recorded songs in the practice rotation. These songs will emphasize those skills on which the student is currently working and provide a musical foundation, so that students may begin to play with other musicians from an early stage. Music choices will be largely up to the student, so that students may set their own goals and ultimately play the styles of music they enjoy.
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