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L E S S O N S

Michael is currently on hiatus from teaching though available for clinics or special requests. Contact Michael for requests. Michael is a member of the Vic Firth Education Team.


Q U E S T I O N S

What ages do you teach?
I teach private lessons to children that have completed first grade at minimum. This age group has the eye movement control to begin reading music. I have no age limit and have taught absolute beginners as old as 75 years.

What do I need to begin learning?
To begin, you need two drumsticks and a practice pad. Eventually, you will need a drum set, a metronome, and some hearing protection. If you are hesitant to buy a drum set, I suggest 2 months of lessons to see if you enjoy it. To play along with recorded music, you will need noise canceling headphones.

Should I buy acoustic or electronic drums?
If loud music is not welcome in your home, consider an electronic drum set. More subtle sounds, like jazz brushes, are nearly impossible to play on an electronic set, so consider the styles of music that interest you. For the most part, the basic skills you learn on an acoustic drum set will transfer to an electronic kit, or vice versa. I play and teach on acoustic drums.

Do I have to learn to read music?
Learning to read music is similar to learning to read another language; reading is a part of being fully literate. Teaching some ideas through written music is more efficient and effective. Overall, learning to read music will make you a better, more capable musician.

How often should I practice?
Your practice time depends on your lifestyle and your commitment to the instrument. Some professionals practice as many as 6 hours a day. As a beginner, practicing regularly is far more important than practicing for long stretches of time. I suggest 15 minutes each day when starting.


T E S T I M O N I A L S

"Every time I leave my drum lesson, I'm happy. Michael gives me good advice and encourages me to do my best. He has a sense of humor. Michael is a great teacher."
→ Calvin, student

"Michael taught our child for 3 years and we cannot say enough about him as a person and a professional. He was methodical in his instruction but was also very flexible in allowing our child to pursue his own musical tastes. He seems to have a very broad and deep knowledge of musical styles and is himself an accomplished musician. Aside from his obvious passion and talent, Michael is a great guy and we were happy to welcome into our house each week!"
→ Danielle, parent

"Michael is a gifted musician and talented drum teacher. He welcomed me with zero knowledge of drums. I really appreciate that he is always prepared, professional, and knowledgeable. My lessons with him have enhanced my ability to listen to music and hear drum parts. I wish I started playing at a younger age with a teacher like Michael. He is super nice and patient."
→ Sally, student


P A P E R S

Stroke Diagrams
Sticking Exercises
Rudiment Practice Concepts
Drum Set Warm Up
Play Along Songs


W A T C H

Touch the Sound
Whiplash
Beware of Mr. Baker
Sound of Noise
Eddie Prevost's Blood
That Thing You Do
Birdman


R E S O U R C E S

Sounds Like a Drum
Percussive Arts Society
Drum Rudiment Video Examples
Anytune App
Online Metronome