Riverdale Music Lessons

ntly, patient drummer, who loves to share his craft with the world.

*** Lesson Details ***
Derrick is laid back in his teaching style, but expects all of his students to practice and make weekly progression. He uses time tested and proven books and methods to teach his students the mechanics, theories, and techniques it takes to be a world class drummer. Reading and snare exercises are an important part of the curriculum, but not the main focus. He likes his students to enjoy what they are doing, so he brings other things to the lessons such as fun endurance and rhythm games. A brand new student that is dedicated to practicing could expect to be learning their favorite songs in 3 months time, and be playing in bands shortly afterward.

*** Studio Equipment ***
All pro gear! Ludwig, Dw, Pearl, Mapex, Zildjian, Sabian and more. Multiple drum kits set up in the studio, along with sound system, and mac book pro.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I will bring lesson material (books, sheet music, etc.) and iPod with apps such as metronome and the ability to listen to music. Isolation headphones to listen to songs while playing along. Stick, brushes. Anything else I might need.

Students are expected to have drum sticks a music stand and at very minimum a practice pad, all though a drum set is preferable.

*** Specialties ***
Drum set is my specialty. I have experience with all major styles of music, and can teach any style. Other emphasis on playing in a band and percussion.

les that may seem too hard to the student. I will start my students off with the basic vocal warm ups and then move on to material that they would like to cover and if so the student doesn't have material to cover, I will present them with material. Being a singer is not easy at all, so I will challenge my students by giving exercises that challenge them to sing for proficient. I will also bring in material that is brand new and ask the students questions about the piece. The student is in the lesson to learn everything about music, so any type of material that I feel will benefit them and help them move closer to their goal, I will definitely present to them. After 3 to 6 months students will be able to sing in the 3 minor keys and the major key. The student will also have knowledge and know how to sing at least 3 different modes. The singer will know how to read basic sheet music and perform it with solfege. The singer will also have 4 songs of my choice or their choice mastered and ready to perform in front of an audience. Lastly, the singer will have knowledge of proper breath control while performing, usage of a microphone, and intonation.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano/ Keyboard
Music Stand
Water

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical, gospel and R and B singing.

he knowledge of using there instrument properly and efficiently so that they may utilize their talents to their fullest potential. Through lessons with me my students will enjoy and flourish in using their talents and become confident in doing so. Both learning and performing should be fun and exciting and that is what my students should know, that I am here to have fun and to help you embrace your natural talents and use them with ease and comfort.
What sets me apart from other teachers at Take Lessons?
Well, I am here to help you find how you learn best and what you feel most comfortable with. You will learn about yourself, your emotions, what makes you who you are, and your goals. Once we find that, we will use that to bring out your strengths and help you thrive in all areas of your life.
My training includes, but is not limited to;
Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, Sherman Oaks, CA- Fitness and Group Instructor Certification and Personal Training
Act One Studios, Chicago IL- Acting, and On-Camera, Commercial Techniques, Film and TV
Visceral Dance Center, Chicago IL- Modern, Tap, Jazz
Ruth Page Dance Center, Chicago IL- Ballet, Jazz, Pilates
Lou Conte Dance Studio, Chicago IL- Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Pilates, and Yoga
Oakland University, Rochester MI – Integrated Studies of Music, Theatre, and Dance, B.A.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI & Flint MI- Music Education, Dance , Vocal Performance, and Acting
Major studies and supplemental continued education in Health and Wellness, Nutritional implementation and lifestyle coaching.
Also, a professional athlete and fitness model with Ultimate Fitness Events Ontario, Canada.

Though I am your teacher, instructor, coach and I am also a fellow performer. I understand that everyone learns differently and I try to take various approaches to help the student get the most out of each lesson. I encourage my students to be open and honest with me about each aspect or their lesson so that we can, together, tailor a lesson plan that best fits each individual.

I am also CPR/AED certified- this is just one way to make sure your child or you are safe while taking lessons while me.

*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are designed to better the performances and techniques of a singer, dancer, or actor.
Techniques such as breathing, diction, pitch, tone, posture, rhythm, smoothness, and stage presence will be practiced. I do my best to develop lessons that are tailored to each student based on their individual needs. Lessons start simply with gentle vocal exercises based on humming and open vowel sounds. Each student can expect to be challenged through exciting a stimulating exercises. I also teach techniques to improve posture, poise and vocal performance. I enjoy using simple scales to improve pitch and volume while also working on clarifying the students voice. A students performance, whether they aspire to be a performer, teacher, or just enjoy performing should have a positive self portrait of themselves. We will work on building confidence so we as performers can take pride in ourselves and what we represent. My students are expected to practice outside of the lesson. I also encourage them to keep a practice journal of when and how long they have practiced. It helps the students to trouble shoot areas of their performance and take the opportunity to ask questions during the next lesson.
My students and I will strive to
- To develop an understanding of basic music theory.
- To take responsibility for their musical and vocal growth.
- To reach for improvement and not perfection.
- To work on the memorization of a performance.
- To try their hardest with each lesson.
- To come to each lesson with an idea of what they would like to achieve.
- To constantly sing correct pitches and rhythms in all songs/performances.
- To practice correct posture and breathe support.
Most importantly,
- To enjoy their performance and learn to embrace the natural talents they are given.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I work from a loft apartment, consisting of an area next to computer with a home recording studio area for music and keyboard. There is also seating for parents if they desire to attend lessons.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I highly suggest the student have their own keyboard/piano. I do have a keyboard and music along with theory books and lesson plans, but would expect a quiet work environment for the student to pay attention.

*** Specialties ***
In dance I am well educated in every area but my strengths include: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical and Modern.
In vocal performance and technique: Opera, Musical theater, Lyric Soprano and Alto
Music: Classical, Contemporary, Rock, Pop, Christian, Country, R&B, Hip Hop

world music realms including The Fray, Simone Shaheen, and Gonzalo Grau. Max currently holds degrees in Jazz Saxophone Performance and Law & Society from Oberlin where he studied with Gary Bartz, Eddie Henderson, and Billy Hart. He performs regularly with his working band Echoes.

ons. I will do my best to cater each lesson to the student's goals and interests, whether that is classical, rock, jazz, folk, country, pop or anything in between.

Lessons will vary significantly from student to student. Not only does every student have different goals in mind, they all learn differently as well. I do my best to customize my lessons for each student's goals and needs. A typical piano lesson may involve music-reading, chord studies, technical work, scale practice, theory, and of course learning songs!

I am a flexible teacher and am excited to teach students to truly understand music and enjoy playing the piano. Please reach out if you have any questions or interest in taking lessons.

· Lessons should be non-judgmental learning space.

As a violinist whose earliest years were filled with musical inspiration, but without appropriate guidance, I’ve spent a lot of time analyzing what it takes to play violin well. It is my sincere hope to teach my students from the get-go with both inspiration and structured technique.

Experience

Education:
2014 – Present: Depaul University School of Music with Janet Sung (Soloist)

2012 – 2014: Studied with David Coucheron (Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster)

2013: Masterclass with Midori (one of the most sought after performer and teacher in the world)

Teaching experience:
2017 Music House Teacher

2015-2017 Music for Kids Teacher

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