My theory behind beginner and intermediate level drum set lessons
| "I don't think any arranger should
ever write a drum part for a drummer, because if a drummer can't create
his own interpretation of the chart, and he plays everything that's written,
he becomes mechanical. He has no freedom."
any professional teachers present beginner and intermediate drum students with all the theory involved with the instrument first. Many sessions are spent learning note values, diverse rhythmic styles, how to sight read, rudiments and paradiddles, the difference between a closed and open roll, proper stick technique, solid time keeping, dynamics control, and the mechanics behind a drum kit. I, too, was first taught all of these techniques more than 25 years ago, and they literally bored the heads off my drums. Don’t get me wrong: music theory and all the finer intricasies of drumming are absolutely critical tools for a drummer’s progression with the instrument. You have to eventually master all of the above in order to become a proficient and practicing musician. However, learning to use your ears when playing is equally, if not more, important. More than 80 percent of the studio and live sessions I have performed in require good ears and solid chops, not just the ability to sight-read and count measures. |
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The focus in my approach is you should never be bored as a drummer. Drums and percussion are the most exciting, spontaneous, and fun instruments in the world.
I’ve found my drum students want to groove to a basic rock beat and be able to jam along to their favorite music. They want to immediately impress their friends and family by playing a steady beat.
I believe everyone on this planet is a drummer, but only a rare few choose to actually develop that primordial talent. That’s where I can help. By learning to use your ears and becoming comfortable behind a drum kit or snare drum first, students are attuned to more advanced aspects of the instrument without ever knowing it.
My sessions run either 30 or 60 minutes, and I encourage weekly lessons. There is homework. Students will have to select a few songs they enjoy listening to, practice along to them at home, and come to the next lesson ready to jam along to them. There will be music to sight read along to as well. Learning to play (and read) along to your favorite music is big part of my program.
I can get most beginner students playing a steady 2-4 rock beat in about one month or less, depending on commitment, age and ability. The more formal advanced study enters the picture after the student has fallen in love with playing the drums. That way, he or she will be a lot more open to learning the essential ingredients behind any good drummer.
My standard fee is $20 per half hour lesson. Lessons can be offered in my home studio, however, I am willing to travel a reasonable distance for an extra $5-10 per session, if that better suits the student’s needs. I offer free consultations. Often my students are able to book time in their schools' music room or practice space where I can also teach.
A snare drum and/or full drum set is required for all students entering the program. In my home studio, students will play a professional quality drum kit of my own.
I am married with two baby boys of my own, and live in a well kept, safe home.
Please email me at tdkane@charter.net if you have any questions, would like to schedule an appointment, or arrange an introductory lesson. I can also be reached at 413-813-5350. References available upon request. I am CORI and safety checked for 2011 at several local schools.
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