David S. music, Drum kit, hand drums, didgeridoo. Seattle, WA

When I work with a student my goals for them include, confidence, knowledge of their instrument, and the ability to play convincingly in any and all situations. I like to split the lesson between the hands, and the feet. I emphasize four limb independence and teach this using fun methods and latin rhythms.  

 My experience behind the drumset began in 1996 when I drew the short straw in a band of all guitarists. I trained at Mercer Island High School and played in their Drumline, Percussion Ensemble, Steel Drum bands and more. I have also trained at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA. Here, I learned with Rob Carson (world snare drum champion) and Sammy Watson (Apex Theory). My other personal teacher was Scott Mercado of Seattle band Candlebox.

My performance experience is far ranging. I have been playing in stage bands since 1994 and love it. I enjoy teaching new students the ways of the performing musician. 

I come at lessons with a laid back attitude. I understand that life can be busy, so I make sure that your homework is easy to do anywhere. 

The first part of the lesson I like to lead warm-ups and some basic rudiments at moderate speed. Then I like to work more complicated rudiments and patterns at higher speeds. Ideally we get faster and faster. This is all while emphasizing proper technique and breathing. 

The second part of the lesson is what I call developing your groove. We set the hands in a basic pattern and work the feet in many different combinations to help separate your hands and feet. This can be challenging for a lot of new drummers.

After this I open up the lessons for you to tell me what you want to learn! A song, a fill, how to tune your kit...

I am also happy to talk about proper performance techniques and what it takes to be a professional musician.

After 6 months with me I hope that you will be able to play rudiments at 100bpm or faster. This is about all that I can quantify as success. Other than that, everyone moves at their own speed.

If it is not fun, or at least interesting, we are not doing it right!

I am best at rock drumming. I specialize and building students "toolbox" so that they have the ability to play in any situation they land in. I like to split my lessons up between hands and feet, and then put it all together. I find the lessons work best when I am able to collaborate on my lesson plans with the students. This way I can teach my techniques, and the students can learn the skills they need to.

music, Drum kit, hand drums, didgeridoo.