Bongo with Kevin Peter J.

KeJa Music and Drums Academy

Kevin Peter Jones Instrument(s): Drums & Percussion City: Washington, DC, Northern Virginia and MD. _____________________________________________________ Kevin Peter Jones is an active drummer, percussionist, and music instructor in the D.C. Metro area. He has over 30 years of teaching experience and a passion for sharing the gift of music with others. Kevin started his musical journey at the age of 8 and has not yet stopped. He began his study on a traditional drum kit and branched out to orchestral percussion from his participation in school orchestra and marching band. He plays and teaches everything from rock, jazz, and pop to orchestral instruments, like the timpani and hand percussion. It's safe to say that music is Kevin's life, and he feels blessed to be able to inspire the love of music with his students. High school was the first step towards Kevin becoming a professional musician, as he was fortunate enough to attend Elk Grove High School in Chicago, which had an award-winning marching band and orchestra. He was a top All-State soloist during this time and decided to continue his study of music in college. Kevin attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music and Georgetown University (amongst others) to further his musical education in the realm of jazz and orchestral percussion. He gained exposure to many different styles and had an active performance and recording career alongside his studies. At the age of 21, Kevin decided to move to L.A. to pursue a professional performance career and had memorable experiences and collaborations with many artist, including Bunky Green, William Kennedy, Bernard Wight, and many more! Throughout his life, Kevin has maintained and active performance career and found that teaching is a great passion of his. He has been a private instructor for over 30 years, and he works with students of all ages on any variety of percussion instruments and traditional drum kit. In lessons, Kevin feels that the cornerstone of his methodology is based around customization of the curriculum for each individual student. "Go at your pace" is the message he shares, so students feel successful throughout study and can enjoy what they are playing in the moment. The goal he has for his students is to "become one with your instrument" and develop an appreciation and understanding of artistry. He firmly believes that every student can enrich their lives with music and find joy in playing an instrument. How did you get started doing this type of work? Other drummers inspired me - What types of customers have you worked with? Private lessons - group lessons - young - 2yrs. and up -all ages - beginner - intermediate and pro - Drum Clinics and presentations to all people interested in learning about Music, Drums and percussion, Producing and the current Music Business - Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take? Kevin Peter Jones All-Star Band - Blues Alley - to be released in January 2019 - What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work? Go with your inner soul - let your heart speak - and I will teach you or your child how to play the drums and succeed - Kpj What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project? That I care - trust your gauges when you talk to a prospective teacher - Do a quick Google and YouTube search - and take it from there - Kpj

NAMM is the not-for-profit association that promotes the pleasures and benefits of making music and strengthens the $17 billion global music products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages.

Founded in 1907, NAfME is among the world’s largest arts education organizations. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers.

Professional Proficiency