Brandon | Teacher #2187
About Brandon
Brandon, with a Master of Music in Jazz Performance, offers comprehensive drumset lessons, percussion instruction, jazz improvisation coaching, and beginner to intermediate music theory sessions. With a strong foundation in both academic study and real-world performance experience, Brandon tailors his teaching to each student's unique qualities and musical aspirations. He believes in making learning enjoyable from the very beginning, incorporating favorite songs into lessons, and focusing on rhythm comprehension, music reading, and technique development. Whether you're a beginner looking to start your drumming journey or an experienced musician aiming to refine your skills, Brandon is committed to helping you achieve your musical goals. Book an interview now with Brandon.
Drumset Percussions Music History Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate) Jazz Improvation
Online Lessons
Jazz Country Pop Rock Latin Salsa Rock and Roll Heavy Metal Folk Blues Broadway Musicals Celtic Christian Gospel Hip Hop Progressive Rock Reggae Rhythm and Blues Ska Funk Rap Bluegrass Punk
English
Teaching Philosophy
Music has truly been a gift in my life, serving as a means of self-expression I couldn't fathom living without. Drums, being as old as human history itself, are an instrument of incredible beauty. They can be loud, soft, simple, or chaotic, often within a single tune. Each drummer possesses a unique style. The drum set is an extension of the person playing it, and since every individual is unique, I, as a teacher, make it a point to grasp the distinct qualities of each student. This understanding becomes the foundation for their musical development. I always encourage my students to explore and enjoy the music they love. That's why, from the very first lesson, we start playing along to simple songs. You'll be able to play your favorite tunes with the very first drum beat you learn on day one! For new students, we delve into the foundational techniques and rudiments of drumming—the building blocks. We work on rhythm comprehension, counting, and even learn how to read music and rhythm in an engaging manner. All of this knowledge syncs perfectly with everything we do on the drum set, and it's applicable to any other instrument you may pick up down the road. More advanced students will discover new ways to expand their skills and express themselves on the drums, drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical genres or the ones they're already passionate about.
Musical Education
I have a Master of Music in Jazz Performance degree from Wayne State University (Detroit, MI) and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Windsor. Studying jazz in Detroit gave me the opportunity to work in an incredibly vibrant jazz culture and learn from many professional musicians. I had the opportunity to perform at the Detroit Jazz Festival with the Wayne State Big Band, perform concerts with high profile guest artists, and perform a graduation recital featuring my own arrangements and compositions. In my undergraduate studies at the University of Windsor, I conducted the school's pep band, led numerous percussion ensembles, and was a recipient of the Ianni scholarship award. I also worked as a Teacher's Assistant in both conducting and music history at both schools.
Awards and Distinctions
Ron W. Ianni Scholarship Performance Award
Special Skills and Trainings
In addition to teaching, I am also a professional session musician and musical director. I have years of experience working for many Canadian artists, including: Buck Twenty (Pop Country), Christee Palace (Pop), Jen Knight (Contemporary/Alternative) and many others. In my years of touring experience, I have performed countless festivals and venues throughout Canada. I have performed in various musical theater productions, as well as many jazz and blues settings. I believe that my real-world experience has greatly benefited my teaching. It has taught me valuable interpersonal skills and patience. I'm always striving to work with clients and help them achieve their goals in a respectful and uplifting manner. Working as a musical director for new pop artists, I believe I relate well to my students who may be interested in a wide variety of modern music.
Lessons on an online platform
Brandon can provide online instruction. While other platforms are possible BAH strongly recommends the use of the Zoom video conferencing platform as it is optimized for music lessons and audio quality.Reviews
Associate Teacher Lesson Rates:
Brandon is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
- 30 minutes: $39
- 45 minutes: $49
- 60 minutes: $59
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Our Promise to You
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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