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David W.

David W.

“Drum set, Drum Line, and Concert Percussion Training!”

  • Located in

    San Diego, CA, 92111

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 5
  • Availability
  • How It Works
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  • General Info
    • TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
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    • Background Check Complete

      Criminal Background Check

      In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
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    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: No
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Drum, Music Performance, Music Theory, Percussion
    Education

    University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire - Music - 1999-2005 (Bachelor's degree received)
    Kansas State University - Music-Percussion - 2006-2008 (Master's degree received)
    University of Southern Mississippi - Music-Percussion - 2008-Present (Ph.D. received)

    Specialties
    Excellent drum set instruction, excellent marching percussion/drum line instruction, all classical percussion (including solo marimba, solo vibraphone, orchestral percussion), jazz drum set, jazz vibes, and solo multiple percussion. I have a fun and practical approach for young students, and I emphasize strong foundations in rudiments, stick and mallet technique, and music reading - although I adapt to suit the needs of every individual student. Advanced drummers will also find studying with me ...
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    Lesson Details
    As a teacher, my goal is to provide a positive hands-on experience. Each lesson experience is tailored to the unique goals of the student. I strive to create an environment where percussion is enjoyed and explored, teaching in an exciting, fun, and passionate mode. I am not strict, and have a strong sense of humor - although I do expect the students to practice. I have an extremely optimistic and energetic disposition! This has always served me very well in working with beginners.

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    About
    Not only do I love chess and running marathons, but I also have three degrees in drums and percussion (Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate). I have ten years experience as a performer (including playing drums on a GRAMMY nominated album) with orchestras, touring big bands (Jimmy Dorsey, Five-By-Design), professional productions (Carnival Cruise Lines, amusement parks), jazz artists, and rock bands. I have also toured solo as a classical marimbist. Although I have a strong foundation in ...
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    Equipment
    In-Studio: Equipment at my studio includes xylophone, drum set, small percussion instruments, timbales, tambourine (orchestral), triangles, drum pads, snare drum, shakers, tabla, vibraslaps, cowbells, jam-blocks, and more!

    In-Home: If I travel to the home of a student, I expect them to have all necessary equipment (i.e. drum set, snare drum, drum pad, vibraphone, marimba. . . whatever the lesson calls for based on their goals and interests).

  • David's Photos

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    David's Audio Clips

    David's Videos

  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 5 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Highly Recommend As a self taught drummer with no prior instruction, I came into my lessons wanting to learn the fundamentals; and David was perfect for what I wanted to accomplish! He understood where I was at in my skill level, understood how I wanted to improve and knew how to get me there. Trough his instruction, I was able to mend what I already knew with new (to me) concepts to give me a complete understanding of percussion and it's role in music. I felt that his lessons were catered specifically for me, and every week I looked forward to my lessons with him because he's fun, passionate and very knowledgeable. I would highly, highly recommend David for any level of drum Instruction! October 29, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Great Instructor !! He has always passion and my son really like David's lessons.My son is lucky that he could meet with wonderful instructor. June 5, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by I am a beginning drummer who started drumming a year ago. I am over 50 years old!! Have only had a few lessons so far with David W., but looking forward to many more. He is knowledgeable, thorough, really pays attention to what you are doing. He recognizes that I am serious about learning, and doesn't minimize my education just because I am starting late. He's a great find! June 29, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Fun and Engaging, First-Class Instructor! I've been taking drum lessons from David for a couple months now, and it has been a great experience! David is personable, professional, and in the short amount of time that I have taken lessons, I feel very comfortable at the drum set! He has tailored the lessons to what I want to accomplish and I always look forward to my weekly lesson. I highly recommend David to potential students of all ages. He knows his stuff, and know hows to teach it in a way that is easy to understand, relatable, and encouraging! Thanks, David! April 11, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Great attitude very knowledgeable and flexible Mr. Whitman is a talented musician and extremely patient instructor.I learned so much in only a few classes I've taken with him, I recommend Mr. Whitman to anyone who wants to learn percussions in a friendly and professional atmosphere. January 3, 2011

  • Getting Started

    Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.
    Lesson Length
    There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.
    Lesson Location
    Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

    Book Your Lessons Online

    Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.
    Scheduling Lessons
    After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.
    Booking Options
    Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.
    Payment and Billing
    We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.
    Signing Your Customer Agreement
    Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

    Start Your Lessons

    Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...
    Prepare for Your First Lesson
    Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.
    What To Expect
    Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.
    Reach the Goals You Set
    Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

    Programs & Pricing

    The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.
    100% Money Back Guarantee
    If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.
    Can I pay when I get to the lesson?
    In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.
    How does billing work?
    Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.
    What forms of payment do you accept?
    At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.
    Do you offer a free trial lesson?
    We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.
    Do you offer any discounts?
    At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.

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