Drums with Dennis B.

I have been playing drums professionally for over 15 years. My styles range from traditional jazz, to jazz/fusion, Latin, Brazilian, rock and funk. I have studied music at Diablo Valley College, Southwestern College, and UCSD. I am a founding member of the critically acclaimed James Abbuhl band where I drummed and co-produced the CD "Voyages and Homecomings". My focus will be to get you to play musically. The drums should fit the music, meaning that as a drummer, one should play what makes sense for the music. *** Lesson Details *** My lesson plans for the beginner will start with the basics: stick technique, rudiments of drumming, reading drum notation. For the intermediate to advanced we'll focus on what you want to learn while filling in the blanks with all styles of modern drumming. I am a very patient instructor that will make sure that you are comfortable and excited about drumming. My goal is to make you a solid musician that has strong timing, groove, and phrasing. Ultimately, you should sound like a drummer that you'd hear on a professional recording. Your progress will depend on your drive and dedication to your instrument. Let's make it happen today! *** Studio Equipment *** Living room...open space...for several people...drum kit... metronome *** Travel Equipment *** I provide a basic drum kit if needed. Students should have sticks,practice pad, snare drum, and the desire to get a full drum set if they don't have one already. *** Specialties *** I teach jazz: traditional, be-bop, Brazilian, Latin, and fusion. I also teach rock, funk, and metal. I teach primarily match grip, but can instruct on traditional grip if necessary. My specialty would be jazz/fusion and rock/fusion as these styles allow for the most creativity and freedom.