Katie's Djembe And Percussion Lessons
About
Through my company Drum Temple, I empower people to get in touch with their truest expression and most primal self through the medicine of the West African djembe drum, vocal expression, and more.
We will learn proper technique, drumming for emotional release, and how to feel more comfortable expressing yourself through music, something that is inside all of us.
Specialties
Able to read music
Musical styles
Years experience
Types of drums
Lesson length
Student's age
Student have drums
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I begin by understanding what their desires and goals are within the musical/artistic and personal contexts. Are we working on fuller personal expression, mostly technique, self confidence, or anything else? We then begin warming up with movement, technique, and a zeroing in on how I can support the student in achieving their goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have trained in djembe and classical percussion for many years, beginning in middle school as so many of us do. I have a technical musical background (knowledge of rudiments, disciplined technical skills, and practice habits), and have developed my innate sense of intuitive playing as well to more artistically complement that.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I usually price $60 for one hour at my home, $65 for one hour away, $80 for one and a half hours at my home, and $85 for one and a half hours away. While I am aware of the high value of the service I provide, I am also open to discounts for families in need as I understand the nature of life.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching all the way back in high school when I was captain of the drumline in marching band and section leader of the concert percussion section. I have always loved helping others learn to express through music and love to use my ability to relate on a human level to assist with this.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all types and ages from young special needs students to elderly friends.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have recently been deeply involved in women's primal drumming, a ceremonial space I developed to help women remember their true nature as rhythm keepers. I love to empower women with technical skills and the emotional fortitude and power to hold down a rhythm.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would say to look for someone who you resonate with on a personal level. There are so many teachers who can provide the technical knowledge, but when someone can connect to you personally, the safety center in the brain opens to allow for an even greater experience of learning.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should understand what their goals are for learning. Is this a purely experimental time, a time to learn technique, a time to combine technique and expression, or even a time to use percussion just as a tool to understand oneself more deeply.