FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The first thing I discuss with a potential new student is the length of the lesson. I offer half hour, forty five minute, or one hour lessons. Having the proper equipment is required before the student can begin lessons. Minimally, the student must have one pair of matched drum sticks, a music stand, a "snare drum" practice pad with an adjustable stand, and an adjustable drum stool. If the student has a complete drum set that is fine, but it is not necessary to begin studying. If the student continues on he will need a complete drum set. The student will need to make a one time purchase of my Drum Method Book. The book encompasses everything the student needs to know about the snare drum and the drum set and how to play them incorporating the hands and feet. It is complete with music notation.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
When I was eleven years old my Dad enrolled me in concert and marching band entitled "The Junior Police Band." I worked my up to become the Ist Chair Percussionist and Section Leader. During Middle School and High School, I performed with the school's Concert, Marching, and Big Band. At age thirteen I began my study of Classical Percussion with James Sewrey, Founding Member of "The Percussive Arts Society." I started playing professionally in High School with world renowned musicians. I also began to teach percussion privately. After graduating High School, I attended New Mexico State University on a full tuition Music Scholarship. The University hired me while I was a student to teach Percussion classes. I continued playing with named musicians and singers. I joined the Army and became a member of The NORAD COMMANDER'S BAND in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I then transferred to the 6th ARMY HEADQUARTER'S BAND in the Presidio, San Francisco, CA. I became the Section Leader of the Percussion Section in that Band. Just before leaving the Army Band, I began playing with Vince Guaraldi - Music Composer for the famous "Peanuts" cartoons; and recorded with him on the RCA and Warner Brothers Record Labels. Along the way I continued taking MASTER LESSONS, from Roy Knapp, Joe Morello, and Ed Thigpen. I played a concert in which I "traded" drum solos with the famous drummer Louie Bellson.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I began playing drums professionally and teaching drums in my high school years.