(831) 332-2534

Neil is available for lessons at his home studio in Santa Cruz, at your place,
​or at Play Music Studios in Cupertino. www.playmusicstudios.com

Lessons are $65.00 per hour, 45 minutes for $55.00, or 30 minutes for $40.00.

I have 51 years of drumming experience, most as a professional.

I love playing, but my passion is teaching others which I have been doing for the past 38 years.
I am great with kids, and I have taught many adults. I have numerous students who developed into pro drummers.

Thumbtack

My first six years drumming I studied with a member of the San Francisco Symphony who was also the house drummer at Bimbos in SF. Under his tutelage I developed a mastery of classical drums while also gaining an understanding of the modern approach to the drum set. I have had the honor to play with some top notch musicians over the years.

My teaching method includes:

  • Reading all levels in both snare drum and full drum set 
  • Focused snare drum and sticking technique
  • Focused drum set and “feet techniques”
  • How to “groove”
  • Dynamics
  • Fills, posture and relaxation techniques for greater speed and endurance

One hour lessons include learning to “groove” with a bass player (via accompaniment on the Chapman stick) Beginning, intermediate, and advanced students are welcome and all styles are covered - rock, jazz, funk, swing, reggae, fusion, ska and more – just ask!
Professional experience includes drumming with The Square Roots, The Road Hogs, The Room Shakers and many others.  

Cupertino location

Santa Cruz location

Drum Lessons