Swarthmore, PA Drum Lessons

• Teaching professionally since 2001
• Uses customized curriculum geared for each student
• Top of the line professional equipment

Students can expect a fun approach to drums in our lessons. I always tailor the curriculum to each individual and make sure there is never a dull moment, all while keeping track of progress as we set goals together. From beginner to advanced, my experience can help anyone down the path toward becoming a better drummer, whether it's picking up sticks for the first time or preparing for a college audition.

I have worked extensively in community and schools with children and adults in djembe drumming styles, and polyrhythms, and folk songs.

In my lessons I strive to make the maximum progress possible, while also having as much fun as possible. This is accomplished by imparting the most valuable, useful, and beneficial information in a fun and relaxed, low pressure environment, always with the students goals and priorities first and foremost. I also like to keep the student challenged at their current ability level.

For beginning students I stress basic fundamentals, just as you would in sports. It makes progress come at a much faster clip and avoids making time consuming corrections later. The longer you play with bad habits, the harder they are to break.

For more advanced students, I assess their current abilities, determine if any problems need to be addressed, and with their goals in mind, come up with the proper plan of action.

Having been self taught till entering college I understand all ends of the spectrum. In my career I have come across three separate groups of musicians:

1) Those who have good ...

Students will learn to play basic rudiments and rhythmic movement while performing familiar songs on the instrument.

I teach various styles of music including, jazz, fusion, funk, latin,and rock. I teach rudiments and classical drum technique utilizing various method books in order to facilitate proper technique, coordination,chart reading, and overall musicianship.

I believe that learning music should be fun, so lessons should never lose sight of the student’s musical interests and goals. Working on music that the student likes is crucial because it gives the student specific practical goals, helps keep the student focused and motivated to practice, and it’s fun! Of course practicing technical exercises is also needed in order to become an accomplished musician, however, technical exercises should always be related to their practical application to making music. I'm flexible to my students interests, so whether you are looking to become a well-rounded professional drummer or just want to learn how to play your favorite song, I've got you covered.

If I could give one piece of advice to beginning and intermediate drummers it would be this: Learn to play everything clearly with solid time and a good feel – it takes more time to learn to do this well than you think. For the more advanced student, I can cover topics such as playing time in jazz, ...

I have been passionate about the drum set since I first saw a music teacher playing in 5th grade. I was the lead drummer in both my high school's award-wining jazz band and the jazz ensemble at the University of Pittsburgh. I have a background in rock and jazz drumming and music theory. I will emphasize drum fundamentals and independence on the drum set, and the second half of the lessons will be up to you! I will aspire to create a passion for drumming by tailoring my lessons to your interests!

For anyone starting out at any age, I spend some time doing an "introduction" section. We talk a bit about favorite musical artists, and try to map out a long term goal (ex. learn their favorite artists songs, play with a group, learn a style, etc.). Even if the student does not know right away any particular goal- at least a reason to play the instrument is good enough. From there, we can set attainable goals.

Anyone can feel a rhythm and better yet make one. I want to help bring that out!