One thing that online drum lessons does not really offer is answers when you have questions..

Once upon a time I studied for some IT exams using online methods and although pretty informative, I found myself not understanding some of the sections and having no one to answer my questions!

Obviously I think a drum lesson in any format is fantastic and I totally support all teaching methods – but nothing can replace one on one lessons with a pro.. A good example would be watching a Thomas Lang or Steve Smith video and then going to a drum clinic and seeing them live.. For those who have seen Thomas live will know exactly what I mean but it doesn’t mean their videos are any less valuable…

As a student, the best balance of learning for me was a combination of really great drumming videos and a really smart teacher, I found lessons to be quite onerous sometimes, they often proved to be extremely challenging. My inspiration was to watch a Dave Weckl video and see how awesome you could be after practicing for a few years! That would then give me the spurt of enthusiasm I needed to get through the extremely challenging lessons.

I spent many years practicing out of drumming books, no matter how well it was constructed I ended up choosing a few great lessons and customising them fit me. When I started teaching a few years ago I realised that all my students did the same, they would start in one direction and end up in a completely different place.. I found the greatest tool as a teacher is inspiration. If I can show you the possibilities within a genre of drumming, you can use it as you wish. There is nothing worse than telling a person ‘this is the way it is’ and expect them to enjoy learning..

Learning how to play any instrument is full of amazing moments mixed with frustrating moments like finally figuring out a solo or drum fill that you have been practicing for months!! It is the best feeling in the world! My job is to inspire…..