Piano with Shawn M.

Hello! I am a professional working drummer with over 20 years of performing and teaching experience. My current band, Eight To The Bar, has been the winner of Best Band Connecticut for the past 5 years straight. We perform internationally in many venues, including festivals, casinos, and concert halls. The repertoire is diverse and challenging, drawing on the traditions of R&B, Swing and Motown. *** Lesson Details *** Lessons with me will be fun and constructive. I gear my lesson plan to your individual needs with a strong focus on fundamental technique, proper grip and stroke as well as helping you find your balance and relaxation behind the kit through posture and ergonomic set- up. We will be able to explore the techniques of your favorite drummers. Through my wide range of experience I will be able to give you the skills necessary to function within your favorite genre of music. At the same time, I may introduce you to some forms of music less familiar to you. You can then use that experience to bring a fresh approach to your chosen style. The name of the game is time-keeping and time feel. You will be expected to practice with a metronome, but also with recorded tracks. We will record your playing and listen back. This is one of the best ways to improve your playing. Double bass and/or double pedal also taught as well as left foot clave, Latin percussion, piano, and music theory. *** Studio Equipment *** Two drum sets, full PA, fender rhodes piano, congas, timbales and hand percussion, frame drums, bongos, DVD player, audio recording capabilities. Parents can sit in on lesson. *** Travel Equipment *** I can bring a practice pad set to the student's home. Metronome, ipod, some lesson handouts, and occasionally DVD's will also be brought. *** Specialties *** All styles and levels: rock, jazz, Latin, percussion as applied to drumset. Reading, time feel, counting and singing