Tuition

Rob offers private drumming tuition at his studio in South Canberra, aimed primarily at beginner and intermediate students. No previous experience is necessary, just an enthusiasm for the drums and a willingness to learn!

Lesson objectives

A primary objective of Rob's lessons is to provide a warm, friendly and fun environment for students to discover the world of drumming. Of course, it is also crucial that the lessons help students develop skills and knowledge to help them grow and develop as proficient drummers.

Some specific focus areas of Rob's lessons include:

• A general introduction to the drums (e.g. anatomy of a drum kit, types of kits, and so on)
• Exposure to essential drum rudiments
• An introduction to the various types of music (e.g. jazz, funk, rock, latin, reggae, and so on)
• Learning how to read simple drum notation (sheet music)
• An introduction to quarter, eighth and sixteenth note patterns
• Learning how to count while playing
• Constructing grooves and bridging them with fill patterns
• Practice techniques to improve feel, speed and control
• Physical aspects of drumming (e.g. techniques for stick grip, posture, balance and so on)

Lesson structure

Lessons are offered in 30-minute blocks and are, at present, only offered in 'one-on-one' format. However, occasional group activities and 'jam ensembles' may be organised for those interested students, to help them increase their overall musicianship in an enjoyable and fun environment.

Lessons will usually begin with a brief review of the previous lesson's achievements, followed by a study of new material that builds on those achievements. This helps to provide a natural progression in the student's learning, from lesson to lesson.

The student's first lesson is always a free trial, allowing them to decide whether they wish to continue learning the instrument.

Students

At present, Rob is accepting students from any age above nine years-old. If your child is younger than nine, but shows a strong interest and enthusiasm to learn the drums, then Rob is more than happy to discuss tuition options with you.

Students should bring their own drumsticks to lessons, and are also encouraged to purchase a rubber practice pad. In addition, the following text is recommended to students once they've undertaken a few lessons and are feeling comfortable with the lesson plan:

"Around the Drums with Synchopation" For Beginner to Advanced Level Author: Jim Latta Publisher: Koala Publications Year: 1993

This text is available from all good music stores, and is an excellent source of foundation drumming rhythms and patterns. It is used regularly in Rob's lessons.

Tuition Pricing and Policy

Rob's lesson pricing is as follows:

• Pay-per-lesson:
  $25 per lesson, per student (30-minute lesson) to be paid at each lesson
  
  
• 10-lesson package:
  $225 (10 x 30-minute lessons) to be paid prior to lessons commencing, or at the first lesson

Rob's studio

Rob has a small studio in South Canberra which is used for tuition and Rob's own practice.

The studio equipment comprises an Ashton children's drum kit (for younger students), a Pearl Masters Studio drum kit (for older teenage and adult students) and a Roland TD-4k Compact kit (for Rob's own practice and demonstrations during lessons). The room is also equipped with a computer and CD/DVD player, which are sometimes utilised during lessons.

More information

Please don't hesitate to contact Rob today for further information, or to arrange a no-obligation visit to the studio.