Lesson Description
The following are some of the main areas of available instruction.
SNARE DRUM TECHNIQUE
This area includes the development of the fulcrum, hand strokes, finger strokes, endurance and strength exercises and the basic instruction of the execution of the essential drum rudiments.
READING, RHYTHM THEORY, AND MUSICIANSHIP
Here is where you will learn how to read snare drum music. You will learn basic rhythm theory: notes, rests, time signatures, counting techniques, etc. You will learn to play rhythms on the snare drum. You will also learn all of the elements of musicianship, including dynamic signs, repeat signs, all basic musical symbols. You will be assigned material to practice the reading techniques involved. These assignments will come from several drum methods. Reading is an important part of being a total musician.
DRUM SET TECHNIQUE
This area includes proper movement around the drum kit and exercises for the development of speed, accuracy, and independence of the limbs. Exercises are also given for the development of the feet
.
DRUM SET MUSICIANSHIP
You will learn to read and play in many different styles: contemporary, rock, jazz, funk and Latin. You will learn some of the beats and fills by use of the tape that is used to record the lessons.You will also learn contemporary songs using actual drum transcriptions.
AREAS OF DRUMSET STUDY AVAILABLE
CONTEMPORARY/ROCK - different styles of beats and fills used in many rock, alternative and Top 40 style formats, also progressive beats and Funk.
JAZZ/SWING - Four-way coordination, jazz rhythm theory and many patterns used in jazz and swing, chart reading, jazz-fusion
LATIN – bossa novas, sambas, rhumbas, cha chas, mambos, and other popular and often used Latin beats
DOUBLE BASS - double bass drum and double bass pedal techniques, exercises for the development of two feet and applications of double bass drum in various styles
AREAS OF CONCENTRATION
A student with specific immediate goals or needs can concentrate on one area. For example, a student wishing to audition for a drum corps might want to study only rudimental snare drum techniques.
RECOMMENDED COURSE OF STUDY
To compete in a world already occupied with good musicians, one must prepare oneself in as many ways as possible. The best way is to learn and master as many different styles and techniques as you can. Your diversity will make you a more valuable commodity. I would recommend alternating weeks between technique/music reading and drum set (if you already have a set, that is). Don't limit yourself to learning one style of music. Learn as many as you can, even if you don't particularly like some of the styles.
If you are a beginner, we'll begin with learning the basics of drum technique and music reading. We'll spend several weeks on the snare drum or drum pad. We'll learn the basic strokes and rudiments and the basics of music reading. When I feel that you are ready for a set I will tell you. This can happen in 6 to 8 weeks from the first lesson. It is not necessary to get a set at this time if it is not financially convenient. Learning technique and music reading is a long course in itself. But, I find that for people who have drum kits, alternating weeks works very well.
Students should get at least a snare drum.
At the first lesson, we'll sit down and discuss our game plan. If you are a young beginner, we'll do what I just described above. If you have specific goals or needs then I'll plan a course for you.
