Drums with Kai S.

I’ve been performing, touring, and recording as a drummer and percussionist for 25 years. My background in trumpet also provided me with ear training and music theory that I use as a composer. I’ve recently taken up theremin–a fretless and touchless instrument that challenges my intonation abilities. Through these experiences, I have a broad perspective on instrumentation, texture, and the integration of percussion and music. I always tailor my private lessons to the goals of my students. As we work toward your goals, I weave in core concepts while encouraging each student’s own voice or style. My primary philosophy is that music should be rewarding, so I want to help you have fun today, see progress tomorrow, and also build a foundation to set you up for success in future challenges. Drum lessons My focus as a performer and recording artist is on the drum kit, which is a superset of the core snare drum. Within customized lesson plans, I typically include the following key concepts: Hand technique, relaxation, time-keeping, sight-reading, rudiments, music styles, listening/watching, dynamics, phrasing, rhythmic feel, creativity, performance, and more. These concepts are learned in context of your personal needs, and I always make sure we’re having tons of fun! I also specialize in snare drum concepts, as well as electronic drums. I have a strong background in music theory, and can show you how to use the theory to help you be productive and creative. Whatever we’re working on–I approach it holistically as music education, not just percussion technique. Additional music topics For other musical instrumentalists and songwriters, I can help you take your playing to the next level by teaching percussion concepts in context of your chosen musical instrument. Understanding how to integrate this often overlooked aspect of performance and composition can dramatically improve the rhythmic feel of your portfolio. Learn how to take advantage of rhythmic concepts and elements to improve your sense of time, note placement within each measure, sight reading, push and pull time across phrases, rhythmic feel, pragmatic use of a metronome, and more. As a composer, I can work with you to understand how a percussionist approaches a score or lead sheet, how we think, what we find useful, and so on.