Teaching Philosophy

I play the drums because I love music and value its expression to the highest level, and I teach to bring out the best of each individual’s qualities in their playing. I use many different approaches, materials, and concepts to cater my teaching style to each student’s needs, desires and goals. Some of us are looking to learn professional specifics and some of us play for simple recreation. As every student has a different aspiration, I curate a specific approach to each person.

I like to remind students that playing drums is play and ultimately it should be fun. I am down to play anything, because it’s my belief that when we work on the songs and music you enjoy, it will ultimately support the playing goals you desire. I’m well-versed in a wide variety of concepts and musical styles, from jazz to pop music, including linear approach, rudiments, accent study, and groove playing. So much of my life has been behind a drum set, it’s my safe space of joy and I want to make that your experience too.

Playing Philosophy

When playing drums, I hear myself within the music, not myself above the music. I know who I am as a player and trust myself in most playing situations. Whether I am recording, performing, or rehearsing, my goal is always to serve the better good of the music. I love to play the simplest thing and play the hell out of it to make the music great, and I can play and enjoy technical and difficult music too.

The process of writing and recording music is what it is all about. It’s fun for me, for myself, but also to work for other people too. Recording tracks for other musicians is really rewarding because it introduces me to styles and playing situations I might not otherwise explore on my own. No matter what the music calls for, my intention is to deliver the composer’s vision. Critique or different directions don’t bother me because while I use my voice and playing characteristics to give the music I play care and cohesion, I want to perform what will best serve the song.

Even with all of my many musical experiences, I’m still learning new things and feel like the journey continues with new discoveries. I value every day I have to be able to play music.