About
My students feel like Rock Stars! I make sure each lesson is fun and enriching.
- I design clear lesson plans with goals, achievement levels, and performances.
- My teaching system involves students' favorite songs so they receive academic benefits of music while playing the songs they love! - I don't overbook so my students get the full benefit of my energy.
- Music lessons have other great benefits: Better grades, self esteem, confidence, social skills,...and more!
- I consult career tips and advice to my students based on my experiences and successes as a professional touring musician!
- I have seen and experienced the benefits of music proven time and again. I know that I'm teaching so much more than music!
- Best of all, I'm exclusive! I only teach students that are truly excited to learn music. I limit my roster so I can focus more attention and energy on guiding an exclusive roster of students toward success!!
Highlights
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I first offer a phone interview with the student's parent/ guardian, or the student (18 or older), to discuss their goals, favorite music, why they want to learn their instrument, other interests and any other needs or requests. If I think they are dedicated and motivated, I give more info about lessons and policies, and we'll establish an evaluation lesson to confirm that we will be a good fit for lessons. Once a new student has committed to a lesson package, I'll prepare our curriculum with adjustments to fit their specific needs for their first lesson!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've spent the last 10 years as a professional drummer in Los Angeles and Nashville, performing 4 nights a week, touring, recording, and teaching private lessons. My formal education consists of an Associates Degree for Percussion Performance from Musicians Institute, a Certificate in Music Business from Musicians Institute, and a Bachelors Degree in Business from University of San Diego.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Each individual hour lesson- $60
When you commit to monthly lesson packages (4 hours), you'll be shaving $20 off your total price!
If you sign up for my 12 hour quarterly package and you'll save yourself $120 for 3 months of lessons!! My 3 month package includes a Quarterly evaluation, where I'll test you based on everything we've covered for the quarter. We will see what you've retained and where you need improvement, so we can set up the next quarter's Action Plan!
REFERRALS = MORE SAVINGS Every new student that signs up with your referral gets a free 1 hour lessons and you recieve 1 hour of your next package free! (must complete at least 2 hours of lessons or sign up for the monthly or quarter packages)
How did you get started teaching?
I believe it is important to pass on your knowledge and experience to future generations who hold the same dream as you. My father wasn't a drummer, yet he still taught me my first song on the drums, "Love Me Do" by the Beatles. That first lesson began a journey filled with private lessons, garage bands, college education, successes, mistakes, live performances, and touring that led me to a full-time career as a drummer! The knowledge has given me the path to reach many of my goals and have a fulfilling career. It's is a personal duty of mine to pass on what I have learned to those who want to learn and succeed with music.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with children as young as 3 years old to young adults in their mid 20’s.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last year, I took on an 8 year old who's parents and he were in town for a week-long camp, and they signed him up for a 4 day Drum Bootcamp with me. At first he was only able to hit the drums in Time with a song. By the end of the 4th day he had a solid groove, he could move around the kit with a hand/foot pattern, and he developed his ear to hear upcoming song changes and apply fills at the appropriate times. I loved the enthusiasm and desire he had to learn and try everything I threw at him, and his determination to work at each challenge until he could do it. The proud look on his parents' faces at his accomplishment made the time all the more rewarding!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Choose teachers who don't just teach, but have successfully done what the student wants to be doing. There is so much more to a career as a musician than just playing an instrument alone. A teacher who was active in this field will be able to share knowledge beyond instrumental techniques that will add to the student's own success! Also choose a teacher who is exclusive and chooses to teach a smaller roster of students. Smaller rosters and limited spaces means that teacher devotes more attention to their students and their needs!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Customers should consider: - Is the instructor active as a professional musician as well? - What is the teacher's roster capacity? - How does the teacher set up their curriculum? - As a parent, what is expected or needed of me? - What is the teacher's motivations for teaching drums? - What policies does the teacher have (parental involvement, required equipment, billing and cancellations) - Are there any additional benefits to this teachers lesson program?