Why the drums?

When I've asked my pupils that, I've received a number of different answers. Some say they find playing the drums to be a good form of stress relief, or even exercise. Some say they wanted to play music, but didn't want to be like "everyone else" by learning a string or wind instrument. Others found a special appeal in playing the drums, a "cool factor" that other instruments just don't have. Personally, that's what attracted me to the drums initially!

Is it hard to learn the drums?

I think of the development of drum skills as a snowball effect. At first you may find some techniques difficult to develop, and you may get frustrated. (Having a patient teacher helps, incidentally!) . But believe me, when you make a breakthrough, there's no greater feeling of satisfaction. And you'll then find that other skills come sooner and sooner.

What are your lessons like?

In a word, fun! If you're not having fun, then the lessons aren't working. I'd like to think that I'm friendly, approachable, patient and a good communicator, and these things are essential to pass over the sometimes complicated technical knowledge you'll need to advance on the drums. In my lessons, the pupil dictates the way they want to learn. Some people just want to bring CDs and learn how to play their favourite songs- that's how I started. Others want to develop more technical skills before moving further, or to use set texts to develop their learning. Like any form of teaching, its important that the pupil is happy and comfortable with how they learn, and we all learn in different ways. It is part of my job to establish that with you.

Who do you teach?

I have taught drums to both children and adults, to those who just want to play in their shed and those who want to play at Glastonbury! I tailor my lessons to each person's age, ability and ambition. All that is important is that you want to learn. I do put a lower age limit of ten years old on those who I teach, but this is more for physical reasons than anything else.

When do you teach?

Within reason, at times to suit you, although I do ask that we set a regular time each week as this helps both you and I manage our diaries.

How much do you charge?

I want to charge fairly, but also cover the largest geographical area I can, as drum tutors are a little thin on the ground in this part of the world. A basic tuition fee of 20 pounds an hour applies to lessons that take place within a 10-mile radius of Plymouth, where I am based. I love teaching the drums and regularly travel further afield to do so, but I do charge for my travel expenses and time spent travelling. I'm sorry I can't be more specific here, but it's really more about how easy and quick you are to get to than the actual distances involved- and if I already have a pupil in your area, this can cut down the costs involved in getting to you if we can arrange lessons at times that fit. Drop me a line and we can negotiate.

What will I need?

A drumkit! Just ask if you'd like advice on what hardware you need. You'll also need at least two pairs of drumsticks, with different weights and tips suiting different people and styles. Again, just ask if you need guidance. It also really helps if you have some idea of the type of music you want to play. Pigeonholing yourself musically will limit you long-term, but we need to start somewhere! Finally, you will need the time and dedication to practice inbetween lessons. Four or five 20-minute practice sessions a week will normally see a noticeable improvement between lessons.