I was educated at Metro State University in Denver as well as the University of Hawaii and studied music performance. Since then have played in several contexts within most genres of music including symphonic, Rock, Funk, Zydeco, Country, jazz and Latin. Currently, I mostly play live with my cover band, "Close Call", as well as remain active in studio work with a number of producers in the metro a
rea. I have a small group of students whom I teach from my home in Tigard on Saturdays. I accept students at all levels and work closely to provide their individual needs from a reading and technique standpoint to build good practice habits and encourage continuous learning. I accomplish this by using books from the drummers ‘canon’ (Syncopation, Master Studies, Stick Control, Progressive Independence, et al) as well as demonstrating grooves and licks from songs the student is listening to or interested in learning. Additionally, I may incorporate some theory or appropriate online content (drummerworld.com, YouTube) or loan out instructional DVD's from my own collection and offer advice to help students if they are joining a band outside of school or are starting to play out. I have a home practice studio and provide a drum set, solo snare drum and various hand percussion (congas, bongos, etc.) My rates are available upon request and the first lesson is always free. Students may pay at each lesson or, if preferred, each month in advance. I invite parents to sit in if the student is comfortable. Books and materials are the student’s responsibility. I am also available for performances- one-off's, substitute, classes- and/or studio gigs. Please contact me for rider.
