Kind Words
“That’s awesome! Max’s feedback was on par — great lesson and two thumbs up. I’m super happy he’s into it. It’s hard to get any kid focused on anything for any amount of time, so great job by you. Thanks.” — Anthony L.
Drumming Can Be Fun for Folks of All Ages!
Welcome to the exciting world of drumming and percussion! Are you enthused about learning to play drum set or a hand drum, but don't know where to start? In drawing on his many years of performing, recording, and touring, Steve can help you begin your new journey. Lessons will be tailored to each student with the emphasis on having fun and positive reinforcement.
Goggleman, “The Caped Crusader,” performing with Candy and the Sweet Tooths.
Studies will cover technique, sight reading and understanding note values, hand-foot coordination, rudiments, tuning, playing grooves and rhythms, playing along with recordings, playing with other musicians, care and maintenance of your gear, creating your own charts, preparing for auditions and studio sessions, how to communicate effectively with band mates, and using a metronome.
Whether you want to play along with records, jam with friends or play in a band, the lessons can show you how to learn, grow, and develop confidence. Beginning/intermediate lessons can be given on drum kit, congas, bongos, djembe, and small percussion. The lessons take place in Steve’s home in Albany. If you wish him to come to you, then, that is a possible option as well. Steve can also teach couples or families for varying rates. He can also consult on purchasing gear and offer repair service on drum and percussion equipment.
Rhythmic Lesson for Non-Drummers
This is aimed at composers, keyboardists, guitarist, string, horn, wind, horn players, and vocalists – who want to brush up on their rhythmic concepts. Perhaps you are confident at sight reading, playing chord changes or melodic lines, but, hit a roadblock when it comes to rhythmic phrasing.
Young visitor, Benjamin, enjoying the Tres Mojo band in San Rafael.
Perhaps you have no problem performing in a live situation, but, become uncomfortable playing to a click in the studio. Perhaps you hit a roadblock when it comes to rhythmic phrasing and improvising or working with a studio click track. Perhaps you are a songwriter or composer who is unfamiliar about how to communicate drum and percussion grooves, colors, or textures.
Well, our meetings can help you with those or a host of other scenarios. You can see Steve for a one-time consultation or on a regular basis. Lessons would take place at his home in Albany or he can travel to you for a slightly higher rate. The lesson will be tailored to fit your needs.
Hosting a group of young percussion enthusiasts at the legendary Haight Ashbury Music Center drum and percussion department.
Michael Spiro’s U.C. Berkeley Latin-Jazz ensemble performing on Sproul Plaza at U.C. Berkeley.