About
Since 1993 I have been providing my students with the tools and understanding they need to play the music that they love. From 4-year-olds to adults.
My goal has always been to help them be the best version of themselves.
I have lots of experience preparing bands of students for live performance and recording. I have taught both privately and at places such as Music Depot, where I taught for over 10 years.
My approach to teaching music includes all the basics: timekeeping patterns, coordination, rudiments, rhythm, and reading. I customize my teaching approach to the individual and their needs.
I have a Bachelor's degree in music and a Master's degree in music technology.
I recently transitioned to fully online lessons. There are some basic technical details that I can walk you through to allow for a smooth online experience. Please contact me for details.
My home setup includes a fast internet connection, two cameras, and a recording studio audio setup. You will be able to see and hear me very clearly. My setup allows me to play along with music. You will be able to hear both, the music and my drumming, in case I need to demonstrate something that happens in a song.
I also have audio engineering certifications from Yamaha.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-carvajal-a0b0922/
https://www.facebook.com/Mario-Carvajal-446305372474253/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCabzpkdpvl1gZmXC3GzTtTg?view_as=subscriber
I love music!
I love to share tools and techniques that help my students perform music better.
Specialties
Able to read music
Musical styles
Years experience
Types of drums
Lesson length
Student's age
Student have drums
Photos and videos
Reviews
Erika F.
Brian B.
Becky G.
Theresa
Patrick D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I need to know where they are at musically. How much experience they have with music and what their interests are.
I also ask them to have a few basics ready for the lessons: a drumset or practice pad, drum sticks, a metronome, and a music notebook.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor and Master degrees in Music.
Over 25 years of experience teaching music to people of all ages.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$60/hour or $30 for half an hour.
How did you get started teaching?
A friend asked me to teach him.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have covered the whole spectrum, from 4 years old to adults, autistic, hand drum students, metalheads, Latin, jazz, beginners, professionals, students preparing to audition for a school, etc, etc.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I enjoy all the victories, big or small. From when in the first lesson, most of my students are able to play a simple beat without stopping and how they light up.
Some of my former students perform in bands. It makes me smile to see them do that.
Another former student is a drum instructor in his own right.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Go see their other students play.
Formal musical education is usually a good sign.
Go see the teacher play.
Ideally, meet them or have a phone or text chat with them to find out what they expect and make sure they can provide what you are seeking.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your goals?
How much time and other resources are you willing to devote to this?
I expect my students to practice every day for about the same amount of time as their lesson. But I understand that sometimes life gets in the way. I take my students from where they are today to the next step in their growth, every time. I do not judge.