Is it too late for me to learn drums? Am I too old?

 

Absolutely not! I’ve had many students over the years in their 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, and even 70’s. My oldest student so far was 76 years old, and he has made immense progress. He started from zero, and can now play advanced grooves, fills, and songs! It’s all about getting the right guidance, putting in the time, and staying consistent. That’s what works, no matter what age you are. Countless students have told me they’ve wanted to play drums since they were young, but something always got in the way. Maybe their parents wouldn’t let them, they were forced to play another instrument, discriminated against, or they just never had the time or right opportunity. If you’re looking for a sign to start, this is it! Give me a call today and we can finally get you started.

 

Are there any age restrictions for taking drum lessons?

Ages 6 and up!

 

Can I schedule lessons for specific days and times?

Absolutely. We will discuss your schedule and what times that work best for you. Most students opt for weekly lessons, so we will usually land on a regular time to meet, and adjust if necessary if/when schedule changes happen. You can reschedule your lesson in advance for another time during the week if you know a conflict is coming up.

 

What styles of drumming do you teach?

I teach Rock, Pop, Jazz, Country, Blues, World, Afro-Cuban, Hip-Hop, R&B, Classical and more. I’ve helped my students learn their favorite songs, play in bands, succeed in competitions, and earn merit scholarships to some of the top music colleges. 

 

Do I need to have my own drum set for lessons?

Yes. I will help you find the exact gear you need based on your age, goals, and home environment. Electronic kits with sound isolating accessories are popular for students that live in apartments or low-noise environments. You can have your first couple lessons without a drum set to get started, but you need to invest in a drum kit early on so you can practice on your own. 

 

What is your background and experience?

Starting my musical journey at the age of 6, my expertise in drumming has grown through a diverse range of experiences and education. My early years were dedicated to private lessons, involvement in school bands, my own various bands, and a specialized focus on Jazz performance during high school at the Educational Center for the Arts in New Haven, CT.

Building on this foundation, I pursued higher education at Berklee College of Music, earning a B.A in Professional Music in 2016. Noteworthy mentors in my journey include Bernard Purdie, Bob Gullotti, Kim Plainfield, Ralph Peterson, Dave Dicenso, Henrique De Almeida, Tony "Thunder" Smith, Jon Hazilla, and Terri Lyne Carrington.

In 2015, I won the Hit Like A Girl Contest, an international competition for female drummers.

As a Drum Set Educator and Clinician, I've had the privilege of being featured in events such as the 9 Beats China Drum Clinic Tour, PASIC, NYU's Percussion Festival, The Collective Clinics, Taipei International Percussion Camp, and various others. 

Currently, I thrive as a professional live and studio drummer, producer, solo artist and musician, continually honing my craft and contributing to the music industry. 

 

How much do your private drum lessons cost?

For current rates and detailed information on lesson packages, please reach out to me directly by calling. I'll be happy to provide you with the most up-to-date pricing tailored to your specific needs. 

 

Is there a discount for booking multiple lessons in advance?

Yes. Call me to ask about current rates and packages. I offer discounts for monthly packages, as well as more long term discounts on 3, 6, and 12 month packages. 

 

What is the duration of each drum lesson session?

I offer 60 min and 30 min lessons. 60 min is best for most students because it offers ample playing and feedback time. 30 min is best for younger students that need more focus and engagement. I recommend meeting at least weekly for the best results.

 

How long should I take lessons for, long term?

What you put in is what you get out. The longer you commit, the more you will benefit in the long run. Consistency, guidance, and feedback always yield the best results. Everyone learns at their own pace, so each individual journey is different. At the beginning of lessons, we will discuss your aspirations. At that point I can advise you on how long it will realistically take to achieve your goals. 

 

What types of things will we work on in lessons?

Every drummer has different goals, that's why my lessons are highly individualized and custom molded. Beginner drummers start with learning things like basic drum set technique, rudiments, rhythms, music notation reading and writing, grooves, fills and songs. Intermediate and advanced drummers might be interested in expanding their vocabulary, applying rudiments to the drum set, increasing creativity, strengthening their weak hand, bass drum foot technique, and optimizing practice time for the fastest and most effective results, for example. 

 

What is your cancellation policy for drum lessons?

I require a minimum of 48 hr advance notice. This excludes major emergencies. However, if you have a work schedule that greatly fluctuates, we can work out a plan together in advance for how to approach your unique scheduling. Call me directly to chat more about this. 

 

Can I request a trial lesson before committing to regular sessions?

Please call me directly to request your free 30 min trial lesson. Serious inquiries only. 

 

Should I work for a while on my own just so I can get started?

No. Old habits die hard. It’s best to internalize the correct form and foundation from the start. It could take months or even years to correct bad habits. So just get started the right way. 

 

Should I get a cheap drum teacher first to just learn the basics, before learning from a top quality instructor?

No. You’d be doing yourself a huge disservice. I’ve met countless students that have gone this route, and they end up with huge frustrations and very little to show for the time they’ve put in. If there’s one thing I wish people understood about this, it’s that old habits die hard. It’s best to internalize the correct form and foundation from the start. It could take months or even years to correct bad habits. So just get started the right way. 

 

I already spent multiple years learning from a low quality instructor. I’m frustrated and have little to show for how many lessons I’ve previously took. Is it too late for me to improve?

You’ve come to the right place. There’s nowhere for you to go but up. It will take some extra time and work, so have patience. We will start from zero, correct your technique, and fill in the gaps. We will internalize the correct form and foundation, and build from there.