I have been teaching in the Houston area for over 24+ years. Before this, I was a touring and studio musician in Los Angeles. I have recorded with many well-known artists as well as on many popular TV shows. My work includes collaborations with Aretha Franklin, Lalo Schifrin, The Righteous Brothers, Lee Ritenour, Harvey Mason, and many other renowned recording artists.
I OFFER A UNIQUE METHOD:
My programs are tailored to each student individually, with lessons compiled especially for you. I work with students who already read or play by ear. No cookie-cutter programs here! I extend the teachings of my former teachers from Los Angeles, including Denny Dennis, Freddie Gruber, and Joe Porcaro. I also have a music degree from The Dick Grove School, so my approach and experience are not just with drums and percussion. Each student learns the rudiments and how to apply them to the drum set while playing along with songs that are challenging for their current level. They learn to play along with various music genres, including popular songs they recognize. Each song is recorded with the student playing in the drummer's chair. From that, I create a personalized, professional MP3 file. The students' recordings are posted to my website as well as the popular Social Media sites. This makes for a seamless digital download deliverable for the student to share with family and friends.
HOBBYISTS, TEENS, ADULTS & PROFESSIONALS ALIKE:
My students range from elementary to college levels. As well, I have many adult students who play professionally or just for fun. I work with the instructors at CCISD and Friendswood School Districts to supplement their drum students' ability to play in the Jazz Band, Concert Band, or Stage Band. I am pleased to say that 3 of my high school students achieved a 1st chair drum position chosen from all of Texas with TMEA.
My Lessons ARE NOT COOKIE-CUTTER DESIGNED! I develop my students' abilities and drumming skills as individuals, helping them confidently explore and supplement their real-time playing aptitudes, broadening their personal musical journey.
I work with my students to analyze the music and create drum parts from scratch or through a collaborative process with band members, aiming to provide musically interesting parts that will please producers and band leaders.
Each song learned by the student is recorded and professionally engineered with them in the drummer's chair, creating a professional composition as proof of concept and personal development, which the student can share with family and friends.