“Bettencourt Drumming”
I AM TEACHING ALL LESSONS REMOTELY for students all over the country!
Lessons are $40.00 per half hour, $55.00 for 45 minutes, or $65.00 per hour.
Currently, I teach 41 students each week. I am only available for remote lessons.
I have 53 years of drumming experience, most as a professional. I love playing, but my passion is teaching others which I have been doing for the past 37 years.
I am great with kids, and I have taught many adults. I have numerous students who developed into pro drummers.
My first 6 years drumming, I studied with a member of the San Francisco Symphony who was also the house drummer at Bimbos in SF. Under his tutelage I developed a mastery of classical drums while also gaining an understanding of the modern approach to the drum set. I have had the honor to play with some top-notch musicians over the years.
My lessons are individually tailored to each student’s ability, musical interests, and goals. Instruction includes:
* Music reading at all levels for both snare drum and full drum set
* Snare drum technique, rudiments, and sticking development
* Drum set coordination and foot technique
* Developing a strong, musical groove
* Dynamics, feel, and musical expression
* Fills and transitions
* Proper posture and relaxation
* Techniques for developing greater speed, control, and endurance
* GADDIMENTS, the acclaimed book by legendary drummer Steve Gadd, along with many other outstanding instructional books and materials
All skill levels are welcome, from complete beginners to experienced and advanced drummers.
I teach a wide variety of musical styles, including rock, jazz, funk, swing, Afro-Cuban, reggae, fusion, ska, and more. If there’s a style or technique you want to learn, just ask.
My Philosophy
Great drummers aren’t simply born—they are developed through good instruction, dedication, practice, and a genuine love of music.
There has to be a future generation of great drummers, and great teachers help make that possible. After decades of playing and teaching, helping create that next generation of drummers is still what I love most.
Bettencourt Drumming — Learn to read. Learn to play. Learn to become a musician.