Drum lessons
introduction | courses of study | FAQ
Drummers of all levels can benefit from lessons with me. My unique approach is mentally-engaging, develops creativity as well as chops, and teaches drummers to also be musicians.
A fun introduction - beginners
To make learning the drums fun, I don't subject beginners to the usual 4-6 months of dry preparation before moving them to the drum set. Instead, I've developed an accelerated program that teaches you real performance vocabulary as it introduces you to the basics of music. Hardworking beginners can be ready to play in a band within 6-9 months.
All ages are welcome and encouraged - I've had success with beginners from age 6 to well into their 50's!
Open up your drumming - already play
Many drummers come to me feeling very aware of their limitations, and at something of a loss as to how to break through them. I can help you learn to speak freely on the drums, using fun improvising exercises, by working on any neglected fundamentals, and introducing new musical influences.
A master's polish - aspiring pro
Advanced players already have a large amount of practice material available to them, so their problem is often one of deciding what not to work on. The guidance of a teacher who knows what will be expected of you in professional situations can help you focus your energies in ways that will get you the best real-world results.
At some point every advanced student comes to realize that there's more to playing professionally than just technical prowess. I can help you gain the following skills you need to survive in the field:
- Mastery of a wide variety of styles.
- Advanced reading skills.
- Rock solid time and rhythm.
- Control over your dynamics.
- Expert musicality.
- Knowledge of standards of professionalism.
The drumming artist
What makes one drummer's performance seem competent but obvious and flat, and another's inspired and almost magically creative? Creativity and artistry in drumming is usually left up to chance and each player's "natural" gifts- most teachers do not address the subject. Through my work as an improvising musician, visual artist and photographer, I have taken a keen interest in the creative process from a variety of angles. I will help you learn how to think like an artist, and to recognize and develop your individual voice on the drums.
Courses of study
WEEKLY 1 HOUR - $45/lesson
This is our standard format; recommended for most intermediate to advanced students, 7th grade and older. For fastest improvement, best retention of lesson materials. Includes one free practice pad class per week.
WEEKLY HALF HOUR - $30/lesson
Another common format; best for younger students (4th-8th grade) and beginners. Includes one free pad group per week.
BIWEEKLY 1 HOUR - $45/lesson
Good for busy people or as a partial self-study program for advanced students.
BIWEEKLY HALF HOUR - $30/lesson
Recommended for pad class students who want to pick up a few new things on drum set along the way. Not recommended as a stand-alone format.
PAD GROUP - $20/90 minute class
Best for intermediate to advanced students who want to really improve their hand chops. Beginners should take at least 4-8 weeks of private lessons before joining the pad groups.
DRUMMERS' BOOT CAMP - $450/4 weeks
Intensive 4-8 week program for drummers seeking to make a lot of improvement in a short amount of time. Great for learning a new style, getting ready to make a big first impression, or just breaking out of a rut. It's recommended that during this course you set aside 2-5 hours per day for practicing in addition to class and lesson time!
Includes:
2 weekly 90-minute lessons
2 weekly 90 pad group sessions
MASTER SERIES - cost and program varies
Premium packages. Personalized 4-12 week program. Excellent for advanced students, college students, gigging drummers. Call (503)380-9259 or email for free consultation.
Suggestions:
- Master improvisor course
- Master craftsman course
- Master artist course
- Audition/job prep
FAQ
How long (and often) should I take lessons?
Most students should take one 1-hour lesson every week; this allows plenty of time to drill the assignments and introduce (sometimes complicated) new material. Half-hour weekly lessons are a good second option.
For younger (up to age 12 or so) beginners I recommend starting with weekly 30-minute lessons.
Very advanced players have more leeway for taking lessons less frequently, but I prefer to meet weekly for at least the first month to get acquainted and establish a body of assigned materials.
Do I need to own a drum set?
All you need to get started is a practice pad, some sticks, and a couple of books. But I do like to move students to the drum set earlier than most teachers, and it would be good to get one early on. See my recommendations page for advice on buying.
How much do you charge?
Please email, or call (503)380-9259 for my current rates.
What if I can't afford to take lessons from you?
My rates are in the lower middle-range for top-quality pro teachers, but if you can't afford to take the recommended 1-hour weekly lesson, you can save some money by taking 30-minute lessons, or 1-hour lessons every two weeks.
You might also consider participating in my weekly practice pad class, which costs only $20 per 90-minute class.
If you still think you can't afford it, give me a call at (503)380-9259 and we may be able to work out a customized program to fit your budget.
What are your policies on payment, missed lessons, etc?
See my policies page.
What should I bring to my lesson?
Just sticks and your books. If it's your first lesson, bring whatever books you already own. If you don't have anything yet, go to my Amazon storefront to purchase required items.
How do I get to your studio?
Here are directions, via Mapquest. For students coming via I-5N, I recommend taking Greeley Ave. during peak traffic hours. I'm also less than a 10 minute walk from the Kenton/Denver Max stop.
How much do I need to practice?
See my page on practicing for my advice/recommendations.
Just how good a drummer are you?
You can go to my audio downloads and judge for yourself. I've mastered a large amount of very challenging material, and have over 20 years of professional experience in a wide variety of settings.
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