Introduction: My name is Shawn Baltazor, I'm a professional touring drummer taking a break from the road to focus more on home life to be closer to family here in the Long Beach area. I have 25+ years of performance experience and 15+ years of teaching experience. I began performing professionally at the young age of 10 with musical groups ranging from Rock and Roll to Traditional New Orleans Jazz, then moved to New York City in my late teens to pursue my music studies and obtain my degree in music performance. I have a BA in Jazz Studies - Summa Cum Laude - from William Paterson University. In the 10+ years since, I lived in New York City as an active touring and recording musician, and recently relocated to sunny Long Beach! I've studied and performed with some of the most amazing musicians to play their respective instruments, which has been a priceless experience. I've performed internationally in Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East, as well as extensive touring throughout North America.
I am a firm believer that real-life experience is paramount when it comes to being a good educator. I've been very fortunate to have performed around the world in many different types of musical situations and I bring that experience to each student. My years of experience as a touring musician enrich each lesson with real-life information and offer a direct line of application to everything that is taught.
Each student receives lessons that are completely customized to their specific goals. Whether you’re learning the drums for fun, or have the goal of becoming a gigging professional musician, our lessons can help you reach the level you wish to attain.
I keep a shared Google folder with copies of the exercises I've gathered over my years playing and studying, so no need to purchase several books at the start, as well as a detailed lesson plan that is updated each week. This folder is also a place where I upload instructional video examples and more for further instruction through the weeks.
In addition to in-person lessons, I also specialize in online teaching methods. In 2008 I added this online teaching service for students who may be in an area where they don't have access to high-level professional musicians. Now over 10 years later this has become my main way of teaching. I have students in NY, NJ, CT, VA, IL, OR as well as CA. I use an HD audio/video setup here in my studio to ensure professional quality lessons that are every bit as effective as my in-person lessons. So even if you’re not in the Los Angeles area, or prefer the virtual lessons, we can have a very enriching and engaging drumming experience!
As an educator and mentor I take great pride in helping students reach their goals. I have been teaching for over 15 years and have coached many students from beginner level to their acceptance into schools like Juilliard, Berklee, Manhattan School of Music, Howard University, and more. I have also taught many students of all ages who enjoyed learning about the drums just for fun. I enjoy teaching at every level, as long as the student is reaching their personal goals and getting what they want out of each lesson!
