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Lessons and Classes

 

DRUM SET and PERCUSSION PROGRAM

Percussion is not only fun, it's the most accessible path into playing music. I believe it's essential for people to play with each other in groups. To that end, my percussion program offers not only private lessons, but also ensembles and semi-private lessons.

  • Private lessons are a great opportunity for one-on-one learning, and allow me to focus on each student's individual learning style. We also play together -- two people is all you need to have a group!

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  • The ensemble experience enables students to make music in a favorable and supportive atmosphere. Small ensembles offer a more intimate and interactive involvement, unlike the larger groups generally found in many school music programs. All ensembles stress improvisation and group skills, such as rehearsal techniques and performance preparation.

  • Semi-private lessons combine aspects of private lessons with ensemble, and are a dynamic and economical alternative to each.

In all cases, I emphasize the song as the starting point for all further studies. Styles and cultures covered in all three study formats include jazz, rock, classical, Latin and Brazilian, Greek and Middle Eastern, and African. (more on my philosophy and approach)
 
 I also offer occasional classes
on a variety of subjects.


 Percussion studio   A proper teaching environment is vital for learning music. The percussion studio is fully outfitted with two drum sets, marimba, vibes, timpani, lots of hand percussion and a PA system.
 

  

Private lessons  
Private lessons are offered in one hour, 3/4 hour or 1/2 hour for younger children. Generally more time is optimal for percussion, as the study of percussion involves working in multiple areas and on many instruments including drum set, hand percussion, keyboard percussion (xylophone, marimba, vibraphone) and timpani. Studies include improvisation, technique, reading and all the current and traditional styles, including rock, jazz, classical and ethnic music. Studio facilities allow full volume play-along to recorded and MIDI sequenced music, and, in some cases video and multi-track recording.

Beginning to Advanced Percussion Ensemble(s)
Ensembles meet weekly. Participation is by audition or invitation. More advanced groups prepare for performances at local public and private schools. Less advanced groups are more "lab" oriented and perform in our concerts.

Semi-private lessons  While it's important to study privately and also participate in a group experience, for some, both a weekly private lesson and an ensemble may be difficult to handle. Instead, consider the semi-private lessons - two (or occasionally three) compatible students in a setting which combines the best of private instruction with the small ensemble experience.

Occasional classes  Past groups and classes have included:

  • Rock/r&b/blues and jazz ensembles

  • Introduction to Improvisation

  • Careers in the Music Business

  • Sound System Operation and Recording Studio Experience (which tells you how to produce your own demo in order to book playing opportunities).

  • Special "mini-workshops"  with guest artists. Subjects have included Jazz Improvisation, Introduction to Timpani, Timpani Stick Making, The Art of Drum Soloing, Rock, Funk and Jazz Drumming, Brazilian Percussion Ensemble.

Sally's Music Circle  See our webpage for information.

Please call or email for an up-to-date listing of our offerings.