Spencer | Teacher #2610
About Spencer
Spencer holds an honors BA in Music from the University of Guelph, where he excelled in music theory, history, and pedagogy. With a deep-rooted passion for percussion instruments since childhood, Spencer brings over 6 years of teaching experience to his drum set and dictation lessons. Trained by renowned drummer Joe Sorbara, Spencer's musical journey is enriched by live performances and extensive knowledge in show production. Fluent in English, he fosters a personalized learning environment focused on student preferences, encouraging exploration and musical growth. Spencer offers in-home, studio, and online lessons, aiming to inspire a lifelong love for music. Book an interview now.
Drumset Ear Training Music History Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate) Music Appreciation Dictation Jazz Improvation
Online Lessons In Studio Lessons Lessons in Your Home
Classical Jazz Pop Rock Latin Rock and Roll Heavy Metal Blues Hip Hop Progressive Rock Rhythm and Blues Funk Rap Punk
English
Teaching Philosophy
It's all about you! I can get the basics rolling, and get you to understand the instrument and how to play it, however, I structure my lessons based on YOUR PREFERENCES. Want to play punk? I'll get you there. Want to play Latin? Same thing. Rock 'n' Roll? No problem. The blues? Got you covered. The number one thing on my list is to make sure that my students pursue music not only during but AFTER lessons with me as well. The beauty of this approach is that if someone doesn't know where they want to go with the instrument, it means we can just explore, and find something along the road that really grabs them. Music is like breathing for me, and so is making people laugh/smile. I am not just a teacher or mentor, I am also a friend. I firmly believe that music can change the world, and can change the hearts of its inhabitants for the better. All I want to do is share that with the world.
Musical Education
I was educated at the University of Guelph, and earned an honours BA in Music. This program included classes on music history, music theory, music pedagogy (the study of teaching), and yearly performances in front of a jury of professors that would decide whether my performance was good enough to advance to the next year. I have been in front of a piano since I was 6 years old, and have always gravitated toward percussion instruments. I was trained in drumming by Joe Sorbara (and he was taught by Herbie Hancock, among others). He taught me to hear all sounds in the world as musical ones. I experience being in an active nature as I would a piece of music. He also taught/challenged me to make sounds with my drums that I have never made before. I succeeded. I have played numerous live shows, including shows in front of nearly a thousand people. I also know the ins and outs of putting on/setting up a show as my brother is a tour manager as well.
Awards and Distinctions
Graduated with honours.
Special Skills and Trainings
I was a scout leader for over 5 years. I am EXTREMELY well versed in leadership skills (took courses), and indeed talking to children. I even have my St. John's Ambulance certification. I will always encourage a safe space for learning as well as teaching.
Lessons in your home
Spencer is available to teach in your home if you are located in the following areas:- Etobicoke, ON
- Hamilton, ON
- King, ON
- Markham, ON
- Mississauga, ON
- North York, ON
- Richmond Hill, ON
- Toronto, ON
Lessons in a music studio
Spencer offers lessons from his studio. Map locations are approximate and based on the postal code of the teacher’s studio. The full address will be provided upon registration.Lessons on an online platform
Spencer 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:
Spencer 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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