Instruction
I have over ten years experience teaching private drum lessons. I began my teaching career in the mid 90's at Harmony Music Studios in Grandview Ohio. I am very thankful to Bob Mernahan for giving me the opportuntity to be an instructor at his facility. Over the seven years I taught at Harmony Studios I learned alot about how to inspire students of all ages. I found that it is good to use as many different types of media as possible, such as books, cd's, dvd's, mp3 players and websites devoted to drumming. Utilizing tools such as these can be a great way to keep consistant levels of motivation and interest which is key for long term success. The other thing I found to be helpful is simply keeping a positive attitude. If I am positive then that will rub off on my students and they will be positive. Which creates a much better environment for learning. The drum jams are pretty fun too. lol
I spent three years teaching at Music Royale in Powell Ohio. Combining my past experiences with a new environment helped to build my confidence as a teacher. It was here that I got my first experience working in group situations with there "School of Rock" program. This was a great learning experience for me and provided me with the knowledge to be able to teach upcoming Music Programs for Blues in the Schools , The Jazz Arts Group of Columbus Ohio and The Blues Academy in Tournon d'Agenais, France. Many Thanks to Jesse McNamara and the fine staff at Music Royale.
In 2008 it was my honor to be given the opportunity to instruct at the blues camp in Tournon d'Agenais , France. Instructors and students came from all over europe for this event. For one week we all lived in a castle together and everyday we played music and became closer as friends. This was one of the greatest experiences of my life and I encourage everyone to check it out.
"Blues in the Schools" is a wonderful program founded by my friend Hawkeye Herman. As a music educator, Hawkeye has taken his love of blues music to students of all ages, from pre-school to university campuses through his enthusiastically received "Blues in the Schools" program, which he initiated in 1978.
In May of 1998, Hawkeye received the "Keeping the Blues Alive" Award for achievement in education from the Blues Foundation in Memphis.
In Septmeber of 2010 I was invited to instruct in Cali, Columbia (South America). The United States Embassy in conjunction with "Blues in the Schools" made it possible for me to go to Cali and teach students about Blues Music as part of a cultural exchange program. Everyday for one week instructors traveled to High Schools and Colleges around Cali to give lectures and instruction to young musicians. We made performances almost every night, for the the students as well as the public. The week long event culminated with a sold out festival held at The Centro Cultural.
Arts Group
I've been the drum instructor at nearly half a dozen Blues Camps for The Jazz Arts Group of Columbus, as part of their Jazz Academy Program. Classes at the Jazz Academy are designed to engage all ages and interests, from pre-school children to senior citizens, guitar players to aspiring producers, and students to teachers. The blues camp is a week long event where students are given material tailored to their skill level. At the end of the week the students enjoy some studio time and perform a gig for the public.
I am currently teaching at three music academies in the Cincinnati area. Loveland , Maineville and Lebanon Music Academies provide students with a solid musical education and lessons tailored to each student's interests and goals..These academies offer instruction for a wide variety of musical instruments as well as the performing arts. In addition to that they offer many opportunities for students to perform at recitals or in group situations. Students are also given the opportunity to travel to studios around the country and experience the recording environment first hand. You may have even seen some of our students in showcase performances at regional community events. Hope to see you at one of these fine music academies..
Many Thanks