Some Frequently Asked Questions:

Am I too old to learn Drums?

No! You are never too old to learn an instrument. I have vast experience teaching adults of all ages and have a particular way of approaching adult lessons that differs from children. I can help make you feel comfortable and help you progress incrementally until you achieve your goals. I have taught many adult students of all skill levels. Including, total beginners looking for a new hobby, parents wishing learn alongside their child, intermediate students looking to dust off their old childhood kit and revisit drumming as well as accomplished musicians looking to learn a second or third instrument.

What is the youngest age you teach?

This is more a matter of the individual student. As a general rule, 7 years old is a good time to start playing drums. However, I have taught some younger students than this and it can be very successful. Very young students require encouragement and supervision from their parents in order to succeed. However, if they are provided with this it can be very rewarding. Very young students may also require a modified drum kit as they are often to small to sit at a full kit. Please get in touch with me to discuss individual situations.

What do I need to get started?

You will firstly require a set of drum sticks. If you are a beginner “5A” size is recommended. You will also require something to practice on, so if you do not already own a drum kit or snare drum, you will need a “practice pad”. A practice pad is a rubber pad that is small, portable and allows drummers to practice quietly. Both sticks and practice pads can be found at many local music shops.

Do I need to own a drum set?

You do not need a drum set for your first lesson if you are a beginner, however you will need to purchase or at least have access to one moving forward. There are many different styles and brands of kits for sale today, both acoustic and electric. Buying drums as an inexperienced drummer can be a proverbial minefield. I am happy to make recommendations on what to purchase or alternative solutions so please don't hesitate to get in touch.

What if I can't fit drums in my home? What if I can’t afford a new kit?

There are several possible solutions if you feel you cannot afford or can't fit drums in your home. This does not need to be an impediment to success on the drums! Again, I am happy to discuss so please feel free to get in touch.

Why are in person lessons better than zoom?

Due to the nature of the instrument, in person lessons allow for a more effective and rewarding experience for the student. I use acoustic drum kits to teach in my studio as it gives a much more realistic experience for the student. Being in person allows students that may not be able to have acoustic drums in their home, the opportunity to play an acoustic kit. In addition, as a result of the sonic qualities of the drums,(i.e. They can be loud!) it can be difficult to hear over zoom and therefore makes it difficult to evaluate a student. Similarly, it can also be difficult for both student and teacher to see what each other are doing due to the nature of the physical size and dimensions of the drums.

Do you teach advanced students?

Yes! I teach advanced students up to and including post secondary level. My qualifications include: Bachelor of Music degree majoring in performance jazz drums, 17 years gigging and 10 years teaching experience.

Do you book one off lessons or shorter blocks of lessons?

Yes. While weekly lessons are usually the most conducive to steady and rapid improvement, I do offer one off or block bookings if a regular schedule is difficult to commit to.