KC Youth Percussion
About
I was brought up in a long tradition of music education in Kansas City where a students music education and personal development are combined. Unlike the Fast Food "drive through" Model approach to Percussion lessons, each lesson is tailored to every different student, and I like to relate how what the student learns in my class relates to algebra, history, philosophy and literature. I also use music to teach students solid communication skills, and creative problem solving. Culminating in a bi-annual solo performance to build resistance to anxiety, and stress, and cultivating a level of comfort-ability while in the public spotlight. More than just learning drums and percussion we truly have a complete education in music and life long mastery skills.
I lived the dream life of many musicians, I spent 10 years playing as Principal Timpanist of a professional orchestra, but the greatest joy I had was guiding my students to college, and helping them understand who they are and what they want to be. I've had students receive full scholarships to college, and win major international prizes. I've also help students apply their talents to other areas such as foreign language learning, culinary arts, and mechanical engineering. I love watching my students learn and grow as if they were my own children, and having them feel proud about doing a job at the best possible level.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We will have an informal meeting at the Percussion Studio, to discuss goals and expectations, and to decide if we can work together in a successful manner.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Director KCYPE 2016- present Substitute Timpanist with Kansas City Symphony 2016- present Bachelors of Music B.M. from Peabody Conservatory 2000-2004 Graduate Performance Degree (GPD) from Peabody Conservatory 2000-2006 Principal Timpanist of Daejeon Philharmonic Orchestra (South Korea) 2006-2016 Prinicpal Percussionist Ditto Orchestra, (Seoul, South Korea) 2015-2016
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching at a corporate music store when I was in college and became quite disappointed in their process of funneling students in and out as fast a possible without care for quality. During time in Korea I was able to experiment with different approaches and styles of interaction with students. Once my predecessor retired I jumped at the chance to implement my ideas in my home town.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Please take care who you hire guide your child through their development. There are several music stores who treat teaching as a fast food business, and will hire anybody to teach drums. Some majorly teacher other instruments, while most are recently graduated college kids with no experience in the world of music or education.