Jazz drumming methods from world class professional.

From 73 C$ /h

From my extensive years as a professional drummer who has toured and recorded with the world’s top jazz musicians, I can offer personalized knowledge that goes beyond typical textbook methods. My experience and wisdom from my years of success as a professional drummer provide you with valuable insights.

Location

Online from Japan

About Me

An international solo artist who also has the distinction of becoming the rhythmic linchpin of some of the classic contemporary jazz line-ups from the late 1980s onwards – notably sharing bandstands with Herbie Hancock, Dave Holland and Wayne Shorter – drummer, composer and arranger Gene needs little introduction to audiences the world over. His panoplied collaborations also include the names of Art Farmer, Christian McBride, Dianne Reeves, Kevin Eubanks, Eddie Gomez and Hugh Masekela, and he has enjoyed more than a decade imaginatively reinterpreting gems from our jazz heritage both on record and in concert with the popular New York Standards Quartet.

His first love (in contrast to his multifarious, larger ensemble work) remains the piano trio: “Playing all those years with Herbie and Dave, I just fell in love with the environment”. So his debut release as leader – Trio NuYorx’s Power of Love (Whirlwind, 2018) – celebrates this format through the close New York friendships he has forged with pianist Gabriel Guerrero and double bassist Carlo de Rosa. Though Philadelphia-born, the drummer is now mainly based in Japan; and there, he has established a second ensemble, Trio To-Kyo, with bassist Pat Glynn and pianist Mayuko Katakura, expanding his artistic vistas even wider amidst the creative melting pot of this bustling metropolis.

A fundamental desire to explore and develop ideas which are not governed by tradition or rules has carved out the pathways of Gene’s eminent career, adapting to multiple styles and genres. Yet increasingly, alongside his post-bop credentials, he embraces the strong and inseparable connections which American jazz piano and drums hold with Afro-Caribbean music, incorporating these exciting elements into his ongoing percussive and compositional journey.

Berklee-educated for five years, he rubbed shoulders there with the likes of Walter Beasley, Branford Marsalis, Terri Lyne Carrington and Jeff “Tain” Watts, and it was guitarist Kevin Eubanks who brought him to New York – a move which would be pivotal in his early professional career. Working also with trombonist Robin Eubanks helped to immerse the drummer in the new vibe of the city’s jazz, embracing and merging odd meters and innovatory elements without compromising swing and tradition. At that time, his musical circle included names which are now familiarly woven into the scene’s rich tapestry – Terence Blanchard, Jean Toussaint, Greg Osby, Gary Thomas, Anthony Cox, Lonnie Plaxico, Mulgrew Miller and Steve Coleman. Both touring and recording with pianist Michele Rosewoman, who focused on Afro-Cuban elements from the African Yoruba traditions, was hugely influential, introducing the drummer to Eddie Bobea, Orlando “Puntilla” Rios, Steve Berrios, Pedrito Martinez and others.

Lifelong connections continued to intertwine, meeting up with Billy Childs as they toured together with Branford Marsalis (the pianist subbing for Kenny Kirkland and Gene for his good friend Jeff “Tain” Watts). Childs’ dual gift for 20th Century classical and jazz composition proved a great inspiration for him, and as well as gigging together, they recorded an album with Joe Locke and Eddie Gomez.

1991 saw his first tour with the Herbie Hancock/Wayne Shorter Quartet – a transformative experience which elevated him to command the drum stool in Herbie Hancock’s evolving trio and quartet projects, consistently touring across the globe from 1993–2000 (“I had the honor of witnessing this magic night after night for years...”). The resulting association with Dave Holland also saw him become integrated into the illustrious bassist’s own band, together pushing the boundaries of tradition. Since the early noughties, he has toured with pianist Orrin Evans, whose determination to respect the swing, yet move the music eloquently to the future, has been endlessly stimulating. It has been his great honor, more recently, to tour and record with Charles Tolliver – the last of the heroes of the golden days of jazz – and his big band; and his colleagues there have included Billy Harper, Rufus Reid, Kurt Lightsey, Stanley Cowell, Ronne Mathews and Dwayne Burno. He has also recorded and toured with German saxophonist Christof Lauer, the NDR Big Band, the Mingus Big Band, and performs with Trio of Liberty, Mayuko Katakura Trio, Raymond McMorrin Quartet and Ondrej Stveracek’s Quartet.

Influenced from an early age by artists including Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones and Tony Williams, he proudly shares his knowledge with the next generation of musicians, currently a visiting Professor at Tokyo’s Senzoku Gakuen College of Music; and he has been teacher in rotation at Prins Claus Conservatorium in the Netherlands – part of bassist Joris Teepe’s ‘New York Comes to Groningen’ program. The drummer is active in Japan, Europe and the United States with tours, recordings and workshops; and he revels in his educational role, affirming how rewarding that can be, “especially when I help the student see that many of the answers they look for are in themselves”.

Along a timeline glinting with highlight after highlight, he is emphatically rooted in music history... and continues to blaze a trail with unerring passion.

Words by Adrian Pallant 2018

Thanks to my teachers: Greg McDonald, Robert Zollman, John Ramsay, Lenny Nelson, Alan Dawson, and Sam Ulano.

Education

Attended Settlement Music School in Philadelphia 1977-1979
Attended Berklee College of Music in Boston 1979-1985
Lived in New York City from 1987-2021
Worked with Herbie Hancock 1991-2000

Experience / Qualifications

2018-present Tokyo’s Senzoku Gakuen College of Music, Kanagawa, Japan
2010-2018 Prins Claus Conservatorium in the Netherlands – "New York Comes to Groningen’ program".
2000-2017 Queens College, Queens, New York

Age

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Skills

Drums

Jazz

Improvisation

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

David

5.0

(2)

Do you want to learn some cuban grooves? or maybe latin jazz?

Apart from teaching the most amazing latin rhythms, In my lessons I apply the stick control book, to achieve a good technique, and at the same time I teach coordination and grooves, with the best methods and books from the most qualified drummers.

I'm a professional drummer from Spain, but living in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. I have studied Latin drums at Codarts, university of the arts, in Rotterdam, so I've acquired a lot of knowledge and skills on Cuban and Brazilian music, jazz, funk and Pop.

I've performed in places such as:
North Sea Jazz Festival, Het Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), Tivoli (Utrecht), Jazzcafe Dizzy, etc...

Frederic

5.0

(2)

Conservatory graduate teacher gives drums lessons

All styles combined

Pulsation work

Every 10 lessons there is an ensemble lesson to practice what you have learned.

Method suitable for the little ones 4-5 years old
First course without obligation

Stuart

5.0

(2)

Methodology

I base my teaching what the student wants to learn and also through years of teaching and learning I can help guide you on this path.

Techniques, phrase development, solo, accompaniment, odd rhythms and creation of your own sound.

We will cover traditional rhythms from Turkey, the Balkans, Egypt. I can teach darbuka and bendir from beginner to advanced level. Riq, indian tabla, konnakol, cajon, daf, indian tabla and percussion set ups can also be taught

A bit about me:
I have been playing oriental percussion professionally since 2010 with many groups and touring all over the world and I've recorded albums for groups such as Light in Babylon.

Lorenzo

5.0

(2)

Je donne cours en français - Description disponible en Français
Do lezione in Italiano - Descrizione disponibile in Italiano

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The course method, inspired by the Agostini school (French method used in French and Belgian academies and conservatories) is divided between technique and drums. At the rate of one session each we will focus once on technique and movements outside the drums (on pads) and the other time on the drums and the application of technique and movements.

-> The technique lessons and the movements will be those of the so-called 'Moeller technique' that I learned through his direct lineage of student.
-> The drum lessons are greatly inspired by the pedagogy of the M.A.I. (Music Academy International - Nancy (fr)) and in particular that of Richard-Paul Morellini, renowned instructor.

The courses are complete, in-depth but above all specifically thought of to be progressive. They are suitable for children from 7 years old as well as adults of all ages.

=> Particular attention is paid to the movements and their correct application, to the total independence of the limbs and finally to an understanding of the rhythm and its theory. My main goal is to give the student complete control behind the drums and skills to be able to self-learn any piece in any musical style. 1 hour of weekly lessons are never enough, they should only be used to fuel the passion that will make you play at home more and more.

On demand or for advancs students:
- I am very passionate about the study of South American rhythms. Due to their complexity, apart from the samba and Baïon ostinatos, they are not included in the program before the advanced level. They can be at the request of the student.
- I am also specialized in metal (musical style) and double pedal. The latter is not included in the program unless requested by the student. The double pedal courses are based on the methodology of Virgil Donati.

Technique:
* Moeller technique (the 'whipping motion' - the Free stroke -Full/Half/Low stroke - accepting the rebound - its application etc.)
* Snare rudiments and their applications through reading systems
* Readings of scores and exercises for the snare drum
* Speed drills
* Military marches
* Control of the different subdivisions (quarter notes - eighth notes - triplets - sixteenth notes - quintuplets - sextuplets - triple eighth notes - nonolets etc.)
* Displacement of accents and polyrhythms
* On request, double pedal technique (application of the Moeller to the double pedal as well as everything listed above but with the feet)

Drums:
* Bass drum reading and independance
* Snare drum reading and independance
* Applications of ghost notes
* The 16 sixteenth-notes ostinatos
* Jazz readings and independence
* Binary and ternary readings
* Coordination and movements of both feet
* Dynamics on the instrument
* Creation of fills and original drum grooves
* On request, application of the double pedal
* On request or for advanced students, readings and independence of South American rhythms (study and independence of the clave/Cascara/Mozambique etc.)

Matteo

5.0

(2)

If you've been eager to get better in drums and therefore studying all its different styles and genres, I definitely can help you with that!
Particularly, I've studied in deep Tony Williams' and Elvin Jones' playing and the main drummers of the jazz era from the 50s to the 70s , so if you really want to improve that kind of vision and sound I can give you some great hints such as transcriptions, analysis, sound strategies and many video materials.
Also, I am specialized in Funk/Hip-Hop music and that kind of groovy world. So, I've been mastering a specific approach to this genre as well.

About me:
I've been playing drums since I was 6. I got my Master Degree in 2022 at Salerno Music Conservatory (Italy) in Jazz Drums and Percussion.
I've been doing the role of Assistant Professor at KCB with Stéphane Galland since 2023.

Since I moved to Belgium I had to chance to collaborate and sharing the stage at the moment with Manou Gallo, Zap MAMA, Stephane Mercier, David Linx and various others.

Idris

5.0

(2)

Want to learn to play the drums?
Easy as 1,2,3.
With me you will learn the basics, play along with your favorite music and build your own grooves.
Preferably in my studio, but it can also be at yours.

I have been behind the kit for 18 years in different styles (rock, jazz, reggae, afrobeat).

We can possibly discuss an adjusted rate for children.

If you have any questions, please feel free to send a message :)

Paul

5.0

(2)

I would love to get to know you and share my passion for drumming! Whether you are a beginner or an advanced drummer, I am here to help you with questions about technique, improvisation/chops, playing along with songs, unusual time signatures/subdivisions, theory, etc.

I am currently in my fifth and final year at the conservatory in Ghent and have extensive experience with various genres such as jazz, hip hop, pop, rock, metal (+double pedal), Latin, etc. It goes without saying that I am open to different types of music. Additionally, I already have 5 years of teaching experience and am working towards obtaining my educational master's degree.

During the lesson you will always be able to choose what you would like to learn. This can be conceptual but also a song that you would like to learn to play. So it is built on the interests of the student.

After the lesson, a summary of the lesson is sent to the student. There is a clear lesson program and course, so smooth progress is assured!

Does this all sound like music to your ears? Are you ready to reveal your drumming spirit? Then sign up for a half hour/hour lesson. That way you can feel for yourself whether it clicks 'drum-wise' or not.

Hedi

5.0

(2)

A rocker and metalhead at heart, but also a fan of various styles (80s pop, funk, blues), I've been playing drums since I was a teenager... 20 years ago already! Since then, I've played in a band (ex-Minded of Heart), performed on stage (Divan du Monde, La Cigale), composed and recorded hundreds of songs, and today I'd like to share my experience with you.

My method is simple, dynamic and personalized: we will choose pieces together according to your tastes, then we will work on the techniques and skills necessary to master them.

I will help you find your own style, understand the basics of rhythm, accompany a song, play in a band, go on stage... and much more.

Among my influences are artists such as Pantera, The Beatles, AC/DC, Linkin Park...

Please feel free to write to me now with any questions.
Tell me about your influences, your favorite drummers and bands, what made you want to play drums...

Nipun

5.0

(2)

English:
As a teacher, I always work from the needs and level of the student. I believe learning music should be fun as well as practical, so I combine technique with direct application in songs and playing with other instruments. My method focuses on gradually building control and confidence behind the drum kit.

A typical lesson begins with a short warm-up and technical exercises (sticks, coordination, timing). After that, we work on grooves or fills, often using a play-along track or music chosen by the student. In band lessons, the emphasis is on playing with other instruments, rehearsal structure, and stage presence: how to play tightly together, present yourself on stage, and how to deal with issues that might occur during your performance.

My specific skills lie in modern genres such as (indie) rock, metal, pop, and groove-based styles. As a mentor and an active performer in several bands, I can share not only technical knowledge but also stage experience, rehearsal tips, and help with gear recommendation and learning about auxiliary aspects (recording drums, stage tech, etc).

The lessons are intended for students and young musicians of all levels—from absolute beginners learning their first beat to advanced players refining their technique or bands who want to take their rehearsal and live performance to the next level. Group lessons and beginner band coaching are also available, where we work together on ensemble playing, communication, and performing.

Galen

5.0

(2)

I am a professional musician offering private lessons in drum set, percussion, and music theory. I have a bachelors degree in Music from Colorado University. I have experience playing in musical productions, jazz combos and big bands, fusion bands, hip hop, and metal. I have had the honor of teaching students from ages 6 to adult. I enjoy helping beginners find their joy in drumming and equally excel at helping master drummers polish their skills. Also offered- music theory lessons from solfege to jazz arranging.

Ginevra

5.0

(2)

Individual drum lessons for children, teenagers and adults, adapted to each age, level and objectives.

Whether you're starting from scratch or already have experience and want to keep improving, we'll work in a personalized way and at your own pace.

What does it include?
🥁 Acoustic drum set for classes
👤 100% individual classes
🎯 Program adapted to your level and goals
🎵 Learn songs and styles that interest you
📚 Study material included
🧩 Technique, coordination, rhythm, reading, and musicality
📈 Track your progress

Whether you're a beginner, at an intermediate level, or want to perfect your technique, we adapt the classes to you.

A practical and fun way to learn drums, improve your skills and enjoy playing from the first lesson.

Omid

5.0

(2)

Hi, I’m Omid, a professional pianist and handpan player from Iran.

I’m 32 years old, and I started learning piano professionally at the age of five. Piano has always been my main instrument, and over the years, I’ve developed a strong background in music, performance, and music education.

About seven years ago, I discovered the handpan, and it quickly became another important part of my musical journey. Today, I teach handpan to many students and help them discover their own musical voice through this beautiful instrument.

Whether you have a musical background or have never played an instrument before, you can start from zero. My lessons are designed to take you step by step—from learning the basics and playing your first notes to improvising, creating your own music, and expressing your emotions freely through the handpan.

My goal is not just to teach you how to play the handpan. I want to help you truly understand the instrument, feel comfortable with it, and eventually create music that is uniquely yours.

I offer personalized one-on-one online handpan lessons, tailored to your level, goals, and musical interests.

Let’s start your handpan journey together! 🎶

Hugo

5.0

(2)

Hugo, a professional drummer and composer, holds a higher degree in Modern Music and Jazz Performance from the Conservatori Superior del Liceu. My training has been complemented by working and learning alongside numerous leading figures in jazz and drumming, and I have professional experience in concerts, recordings, and projects with musicians from the national and international scene.

I offer drum lessons tailored to each student, from beginner to advanced levels. We'll work on what you really need: technique, sound, timing, coordination, reading music, improvisation, repertoire, or jazz.

I can also help you expand your musical training through modern harmony and composition, with the goal of better understanding music and applying it to your instrument. This will help you speak the same language as the other musicians you share the stage with.

My goal is to help you play better, understand the instrument, and develop your own sound and language.

The classes are designed around practice and music, aiming to ensure that what we work on has a real-world application when playing.

If you are interested in learning drums or continuing to develop as a musician, write to me and tell me what you would like to work on.

Max

5.0

(2)

The Study Program I teach is from the Drummers Collective of New York, USA where I trained and it is adapted to all levels, including beginner students.
You will learn all the technical aspects, coordination, professional sound and languages starting from the level you are at and focusing everything on the music you like to play the most.

Technical Foundations / Control / Coordination.
Linear Languages / Chops.
Styles: Rock - Funk - Jazz - Salsa and more.
Song Repertoire.

Arnav

5.0

(2)

About My Drum Lessons

I am a self-taught drummer and performing musician who believes that learning an instrument should be a gradual, practical and enjoyable process. My approach to teaching comes from my own journey of exploring drumming, developing techniques, understanding rhythm and learning through consistent practice.

My lessons are designed for beginners and developing drummers who want to build a strong foundation and eventually become independent musicians.

What I cover in my lessons:

- Drum Fundamentals: Understanding the drum kit, posture, grip, basic coordination and playing techniques.
- Rudiments & Stick Control: Single strokes, double strokes, paradiddles, accents, dynamics and other essential rudiments.
- Hand & Foot Techniques: Developing hand speed, control, bass drum technique, hi-hat control and foot independence.
- Coordination & Independence: Building hand-foot combinations, limb independence and control over different rhythmic patterns.
- Grooves & Rhythms: Learning essential rock, pop, funk and other contemporary grooves, along with variations and fills.
- Timing & Musicality: Developing a strong sense of timing, metronome practice, rhythmic accuracy, dynamics and playing along with music.
- Song Learning: Understanding drum parts, breaking down songs and applying techniques to real musical arrangements.
- Recording & Basic Drum Production: Once you are comfortable playing the instrument, we can explore recording drums, microphone basics, MIDI drums, drum programming and an introduction to recording software.

My Teaching Approach

Having learned much of the instrument through self-study, experimentation, listening and practice, I understand that every drummer has a different learning curve. I aim to break down techniques into manageable steps, explain not just how something is played but why it works, and help students develop their own understanding of the instrument.

Rather than rushing through exercises, I focus on building a solid foundation, developing consistency and gradually applying what you learn to actual music.

Whether you are picking up drumsticks for the first time or already know a few grooves and want to improve your technique, the lessons will be structured around your current level, musical interests and learning pace.

The ultimate goal is to help you become comfortable behind the kit, understand the instrument and enjoy making music independently.