About
I provide lessons in all areas of Percussion. I tailor the lessons to the students level of ability and develop their overall musicianship work from that point.
Most students want to start out on drum set in order to learn the music they already enjoy and can relate to. I typically work with students by immediately teaching them several different styles of drum set grooves (rock, blues, jazz, latin, etc) accompanied by developing strong technical skills which includes snare drum rudiments reading and music listening appreciation.
I also teach keyboard percussion (marimba, xylophone, vibraphone). Lessons cover technique, reading, and improvising within the classical and jazz keyboard percussion repertoire.
For more information and recordings please see my web site at:
www.kurtloeffler.com
I really enjoy communicating to students the coordination skills required to play the drum set and percussion instruments. Unlike other instruments, the drum set and percussion instruments require the the use of developing independence in all four limbs. When students successfully put together a drum set groove/beat its like watching a light bulb go off in their head and its a great feeling to witness them finally succeed with something that has been challenging to them.
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Gerri S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I provide lessons in all areas of Percussion. I typically assess students of all ages (children through adults) by understanding their previous music experience whether its a complete beginner, intermediate or advanced. Once this established, I tailor the lessons to the students level of ability and develop their musicianship from that point.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, IL — Master of Music, Jazz Performance, 2018
Berklee College of Music, Masters Certification, Arranging, 2010
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI - Bachelor of Music, Percussion Performance, 1987
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
In my home percussion studio
$30.00 - per half-hour lesson
$60.00 - per hour lesson
At your home (within a ten mile radius of Skokie)
$40.00 - per half-hour lesson
$70.00 - per half-hour lesson
How did you get started teaching?
I officially started my teaching business three and half years ago after I retired from a long career in network engineering. For many years while working in the information technology business, I was an active performer as well and taught on a part-time basis. I currently teach and perform full time.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all ages from as young as 4 years old to adults in their 60's and 70's. I have also worked with many children who have learning disabilities such as Attention Deficit Disorder.