About
I’m an accomplished touring and studio drummer and a licensed therapist. I understand not only the healing properties of playing music but also the empowerment that mastery brings especially with kids.
I have a notable musical resume and I enjoy teaching as much as performing. I help folks realize the innate potential of rhythm and music in all of us and help folks access all the fun and community it offers.
I with Jazz great Charles Mastrapolo and George Marsh. I toured and recorded with Joan Jett, The Gits and many more and have performed all over the Europe, Asia and the US.
I studied music at Antioch College and I have a Masters in Social Work and I do group music therapy. I love teaching private lessons to kids as young as 6 and adults as old as they get.
I love to share the thrill of listening to, and about learning about music in all it's forms and traditions. Drums are the oldest musical instruments in human history and drumming is the oldest form of collectively playing music. (Agruably before group singing and chanting).
Drumming is so deeply woven into our culture and how we communicate that it is often overlooked. Everyone can play and appreciate rhythm and participate. I relish the opportunity to share the simple magical art of playing the drums.
Highlights
Details
Able to read music
Musical styles
Years experience
Types of drums
Lesson length
Student's age
Student have drums
Photos and videos
Reviews
Kurtis J.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I meet the student where they are. I adapt my teaching style to the student's learning style. Some learn better in a structured way with specific homework and even written work. Others learn by watching and copying, much like a dancer. We will discuss your own best way of understnding drumming and go from there.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Masters Degree in Psychology and I specialized nin Music Therapy groups.
From age 10-20, I studied Jazz with a private Jazz teacher. I began teaching since I was 18. I still study music and now I focus on Piano and Bass!
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I have a sliding scale. It depends on what the student can afford and how inspired the student is to learn.
How did you get started teaching?
I got started teaching drums when I was 18. I moved to Europe alone to travel for a year. I taught drums to support myself living in Spain.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students age 4 - 64. I have taught expert professions to rank beginners.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask quesions and note if the teacher listens to you. If the teacher seems disinterested in your music interests and your goals, he or she may not be a good teacher for you.