Private lessons with top Bongo instructors near San Francisco, CA

Hi! Music is my life and passion. I believe I was born to play drums and want to give my musical knowledge to as many people as I can. Whether you want to learn how to play from scratch, get back into it after taking time off or anything in between I will show you what to do and how to do it correctly and musically keeping it fun and challenging. Reading rhythms from snare drum to full kit and even treble and bass clef. I have you covered.. I've owned and operated my own school of rock for almost 2 decades, and can teach anyone how to play. I am also a professional guitarist and bassist, so when you get to a certain level we can (and will) jam to your favorite songs. I can guide and consult you on the right gear to buy for your best progress and budget. Let's do this, I’m ready to rock!

I have been a professional musician and educator for the past ten years. I'm certain that my music theory knowledge and performance experience in all aspects of percussion including; drum set, mallet percussion, marching percussion, and hand percussion will have you making music in no time. My wide range of experience both as a professional musician and an educator can accommodate the budding rock star student and the student preparing for their Juilliard audition. I believe I can inspire students to think outside the box and forge their own path to success, all while having fun and learning to master their instrument! Hope to jam with you soon!

Bongos: Are an Afro-Cuban percussion instrument consisting of a pair of small open bottomed drums of different sizes. Together with the conga or tumbadora, and to a lesser extent the batá drum, bongos are the most widespread Cuban hand drums, being commonly played in genres such as Cuban son, salsa and Afro-Cuban jazz. In class we will be focusing on different hand techniques, placement and rhythms. Starting with the basics, from the first class we will begin to use these techniques to play along with songs.

Give anyone a drum and they will instantly know what to do. Drums are meant to be hit, and for those who love to hit things and make loud noises. Bongo drum lessons are an easy way to introduce students to the world of drumming, rhythm and music. The goal is listening for cues, hearing patterns and feeling rhythm and beat. Ideally, each student has their own drum. Begin with a simple repeat and answer pattern. You hit the drum two times, they repeat. Gradually add to the complexity of the patterns, so they must listen intently. Add some simple rhythms, such as 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1, with a strong emphasis on the 1.

Hands on technique on basic tones for a variety of drums, most importantly yours. Learn tuning, tone and intervals. Stylistic and traditional rhythms as well as exercises to lay a solid foundation to build your skill on. Personal and fun to play at any level and in different styles.

I have been teaching for about 8 years with students ranging from beginner to advanced. All ages are welcome! I also welcome all different styles of music from rock, to jazz, and even classical. Each lesson is catered specifically to the student. I want each student to be able to reach their own specific goals, while having the time of their life!

Matt G. is extremely active as a professional drummer and drum teacher. He has an extensive musical background, having played with the U.S. Army band, Recorded drums and percussion for major motion pictures, and performed with the B.B.King's All-Stars at Sea. Matt was employed by several major Cruise Lines as a musician completing contracts on the Holland America Westerdam, Norwegian Breakaway, and many others. There he performed everything from R+B, funk, rock, Blues, pop and Broadway style production shows. He has also performed with many small combos in a variety of musical settings around the country including jazz, rock, blues, pop and New Orleans style drumming His teaching centers on reading, technique, coordination, and knowledge of styles. He utilizes traditional teaching methods while also incorporating modern technology. Matt specializes in teaching beginning and intermediate level students. Whether you are just learning to play drums or are looking to take your playing to the next level, Guza drum Instruction has the knowledge and expertise to help you fulfill your goals.

As an educator, I strive to provide my students with the tools that they will need to explore the direction that they want to take with their instrument. This can include from enjoying drumming as a hobby, performing in small jazz ensembles, recording electronic and acoustic drums in major recording studios, to performing with a full orchestra! There is literally no limit to what you can do. My focus is to get hobbyists to enjoy performing drums in the comfort of their own home or with friends, and to have my professionally-minded students go out into the world of performing and recording music. All of these environments are where the ultimate joy of playing an instrument can be expressed. As a gigging and studio musicians, I understand what it takes to get to the stage or studio, apply oneself in that environment, and come away with a satisfying experience that you can then build upon for the rest of your life.