About
My focus in drumming is about the groove. Being able to play a variety of grooves consistently takes a lot of practice and great mentorship. I want my students to be the best that they can be. I use the knowledge that I have acquired through my music studies at The Drummers Collective NYC and my experiences with various bands to help you to become a great groove drummer. I like to keep things simple yet effective. Our lessons will be fun and I want to make sure that your practice sessions are fun and effective as well.
I get great satisfaction from witnessing students progress with their drumming and musicality. It's all about self expression. It's about working together and pushing through obstacles. There are many obstacles in drumming and I enjoy helping the student to overcome them and to be able to create music on an instrument that is quite complex.
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Annie
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student is different and an assessment is necessary so that I may proceed to construct the most effective lessons. If the student has not yet purchased a drum, I will guide the student to find the suitable drum and accessories. The new student need not be too concerned about finding the "perfect" drum. You will evolve over time and most likely acquire a variety of drums because of the different sounds that each drum produces. I have owned 4 drum kits and am on my 5th one which is my favorite so far.
For lessons, we will cover things such as drum tuning, technique, rudiments, and groove/fill basics. Video recording is allowed if the student would like to do so. I encourage daily practice of at least 30 minutes for best results. Consistency is key for progress.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I began drumming on school desks at the age of 10. I was fortunate to have been born with a bit of innate rhythm as I was also an avid dancer.
I acquired my first drum set at age 15 and tried my best to emulate my favorite drummers such as Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich, Max Roach, Louie Bellson, Steve Gadd, and Questlove.
At some point, I hit a roadblock in progressing and I enrolled myself at The Drummers Collective in NYC. This was the best decision of my life. The teachers there helped me to become the best that I could be and I still implement their teachings to my own practice and teachings.
Ever since finishing at The Collective, I have continued to play with various bands, accompanying DJ's, and participating in both NYC and DC drum circles where I got to meet and learn from superb percussionists.
I am continuously learning from my own practice sessions, new music, and other musicians.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My rate is $60 per hour, $45 per 45 minutes, and $35 per 30 minutes.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of different levels, ages, and learning paces. Some people learn slow and some learn quick. It doesn't matter as long as the student has the desire. I can work well with desire. Making music is such a wonderful thing! It creates emotion which fuels dancing and I encourage everybody to get up and dance!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Try to find a teacher that can understand your needs and goals. Ask yourself if you like the style of musicianship of the teacher. If you answer yes to that, then that teacher is probably the right fit for you. If you do happen to find a teacher that plays a different style than what you are looking for, you can still learn beneficial things from him/her.
You will usually know after the first or second lesson if it is a right fit for you.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The student's thought process about wanting to learn an instrument should not be complicated. Here are some simple questions to ask yourself:
-what types of music do you enjoy listening to?
-what is your budget?
-how much space do you have for a drum kit?
-how often will you be able to practice?
-how often do you want lessons?
-what is your 1 year goal?