Jazz Trio Workshop Recap

Earlier this week, some of our intermediate students participated in our Jazz Trio Workshop, which pairs the students with professional musicians - in this case Jeff Knoettner (piano) and Rob Swanson (bass) in a long form, master class setting.

The students were able to play through pieces in different musical styles with the clinicians and got valuable feedback on their playing. The students also gained insight in what the clinicians look for in their favorite drummers.

Many thanks to Jeff Knoettner and Rob Swanson!

Nate Smith Drum Clinic Sunday, May 21st!

Nate Smith is a drummer, composer, & producer from Chesapeake, Virginia. His visceral, instinctive, and deep-rooted style of drumming has led to three GRAMMY® nominations and work with esteemed artists, including: Pat Metheny, Dave Holland, Brittany Howard, Van Hunt, The Fearless Flyers, Norah Jones, and Somi. Smith fuses his original compositions with an eclectic mix of music, including everything from jazz to R&B to hip-hop to pop.

GrooveFEST Recap

Yesterday was one of the best events the studio has ever had. All of the performers were terrific and the turnout and support from the students’ families and friends was incredible as well.

We heard many different musical genres, from classic rock to country, from jazz to funk and an original composition on drumset to cap off the afternoon.

Video content will follow this week, and below is a gallery of photos from the event. Congratulations to all of our student performers!

Audition Prep @ groove; My Favorite Kind of Email

One of the key services the studio provides is audition prep. It could be for your student’s school band, for district or regional orchestra or band, college or university music school, or marching percussion at the DCA, WGI or DCI level. It is all about preparation and hard work.

Below is a screen shot of one of my favorite kinds of emails:

Preparation and hard work does indeed pay off.

Dennis Chambers Clinic Roundup

The Dennis Chambers clinic was a terrific experience for our students and a lot of new friends who got a rare chance to see one of the best in the business up close.

Dennis talked a lot about the importance of playing with feel and groove versus showcasing your shops (i.e. playing as many notes as you can all the time).

Dennis performed with Oz Noy Trio later that evening to a sold out crowd and brought the house down.

The Studio is Growing!

Thank you very much for your support. The studio would not be what has become without you.

In November 2018, this percussion studio was a true start up. It has now become a full time business with student members of all different ages and ability levels.

On September 1, 2022, I am opening a second studio location: groove Oxford Arts Alliance.

I am looking forward to bringing the same high quality instruction on drum set, rudimental, hand drumming, marimba, electronic percussion and content creation, recording and media production to the Oxford Arts Alliance.

For rates and availability, please email me.