About
Most drum instructors rely on a single "teaching" drum set to teach from; switching back and forth between student and teacher. These drum sets are usually missing vital parts, tuned incorrectly, include sub-entry level equipment and set up poorly, thus restricting leaning. Saint Louis Drum Lessons provides two professional quality drum sets placed side for efficient and understandable instruction. Saint Louis Drum Lessons create customized lessons based on both the student's and the parent's needs giving them a truly personal approach to teaching the art of drumming. Although there are over 25 students on the weekly schedule, every student and parent is treated as an individual whether it's drum instruction, scheduling, helping find drum equipment or setting up and tuning the student's equipment. I have also won several drumming awards, been featured in Billboard Magazine for up and coming artists, written several drum method books, work with a variety of live acts featuring different musical genres and am endorsed by Aquarian Drum Heads. I come from a long line of elementary teachers so I believe teaching is in my blood.Teaching the art of drumming and working side by side with young and old is very enjoyable, rewarding and I take pride in what I do. I was a young drumming student once (having been taught by many teachers) and have really enjoyed the teaching side of drum lessons. I also enjoy having weekly lessons with my young son. It's fun and educational for him while being valuable to me.
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I enjoy being part of a drum student's success. I enjoy the teaching process where the student and I go from start to success whether it understanding a specific part of a song or a beat to fill transition. It's always great to witness the actual moment of student's success! I highly value that.
More Frequently Asked Questions here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/faq
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
A FREE 30 min drum lesson is offered to meet the student and discuss drumming goals and interests. This also give me a chance to meet the parent and discuss what they would like their child to receive from drum lessons. A drumming evaluation is also performed to show what category the student lies within (beginner / intermediate / advanced).
I make it easy and simple to start drumming! Once on the master lesson schedule, the student and I really dig into both the fun and educational sides of drumming by using their drumming interests as a basis. Some teachers follow a strict, "one size fits all" approach however, I feel it's by far best to provide custom-made drum lessons for each individual student.
All styles are available to learn and discover, as well as school band music and mallet percussion (xylophone, bells, etc.) It becomes very rewarding to see a student practicing a particular idea and ultimately working it out to a satisfying level. They feel a lot of pride in themselves (which becomes a big confidence booster) and I feel rewarded for providing them the direction to their understanding.
More info here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/faq
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was taught by the head of the Percussion Dept. at Webster University for many years. We studied all styles including Rock, Jazz, Blues, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, Concert and Symphonic Snare Drum pieces to name a few.
I also enjoy master classes by professionals who are in town for a few days while on tour.
More information here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/faq
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Since I have different lesson time lengths & other variables, it is best to call me at 314-766-6991 for pricing.
(My apologies if this proves inconvenient.)
More info here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/lessons-2
How did you get started teaching?
My father was a hobbyist drummer so there was always a drumset in the house. I gravitated towards the drums overall at a very early age then began to study the instrument with one of the best private instructors in the STL area (Kevin G. is the head of the Percussion Dept. at Webster U.). I was in Concert, Symphonic, Pep and Jazz band in high school. In my early 20's, I began recording and touring the mid-west with various bands.
More info here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/lessons-2
What types of students have you worked with?
My students come from all musical backgrounds. Most students are young people who want to learn songs from their favorite bands or just want to be able to enjoy playing drum set.
Some students are adults who always wanted to play the drums but didn't have time until now. Some young people need help with school band music. Many witness a live performance from a group or artist, hone in on the drummer and say to themselves, "I want to do THAT!" Whatever the reason, I can help you enjoy the art of drumming at your pace with your interests.
More Frequently Asked Questions here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/faq
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently was asked to give a Drum Clinic at a local school. I was able to have an hour of the school's time to explain the history of drumming, different instruments in the percussion family. I ended the clinic with a small drum circle of students from the audience playing various percussion instruments I had on hand including cowbells, wood blocks, snare drum, cascara & maracas. They performed fairly well but more importantly, had a great time! I'm lucky because most of the performances I've played have been with great people and enjoyable.
Videos of performances and more here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/videos
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When seeking a music teacher (drumming, or any sort) make sure they know how to explain the instrument well and know how to teach according to the student. Many times, people are satisfied with someone who can just play their instrument well. That is definitely part of it but knowing and understanding how to TEACH the instrument is most important. Many perform well but can not teach effectively.
More info here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Important Frequently Asked Questions that students should think through before selecting a private drum teacher:
Do I need a drum set?
No, you don't need to own a drum set but I can explain why at lessons.
Do you work with students on actually PLAYING songs? Any teacher who doesn't get the student playing along to songs and music wouldn't be considered a very good instructor.
Will I learn to read actual music? Is there such a thing as drum music? At bare minimum, all teachers should teach the basic note values to younger students.
Overall, teachers should know how to read music and read it well. Adults who are finished with their education are encouraged to learn basic note values but are not demanded to.
More Frequently Asked Questions about my drum lessons here:
https://www.saintlouisdrumlessons.com/faq