How we learn ...

LEARN  BY DOING !

For drum kit it means that we will both play on a drum-kit each - side by side, linked by microphone and headphones.  We play along to CD's and live music. You will be able to see and hear what I'm doing while we discuss it.  You join in when you want to have a go. You spend most of the lesson PLAYING.  You can bring a CD of your favourite music to help you learn !

We all learn a lot faster by joining in (rather than being put on the spot).  It means that won't be nervous - you just join in the music right from the very first notes !

When you're ready to go it alone - you will !  It's all student centred - it's all about you.  You will be able to play a basic beat by the end of the first assessment session and I'll join in on bass guitar or keyboard to show you how the music flows.

You're going to enjoy being a musician.  You're going to love being a drummer.

DO I NEED A DRUM KIT ?

No, not to start with. A pair of sticks and a practice pad are a good idea. With a little creativity, imagination and determination you will be able to work through exercises between lesson (when you can really get into it on a real acoustic kit). When you want to buy a kit they are much more modestly priced than you think.

DO I HAVE TO READ MUSIC ?

No - but you'll want to !  Like most learning, reading is a way to speed it up !  You learn to play, THEN you learn to read what you've played - the natural way.

PRACTICE ?

It's up to you - the more you practice the better you'll get and I know that everyone's different.  Do what you can and ENJOY your playing.

WILL I DO GRADES ?

If you want to, you can prepare for and take grade examinations.  Grades are a good way to measure progress and they are not the only way.  Let's do what's best for you rather than putting you straight on a programme.  That said, the new exams are great fun and full of great ideas on how to build your musicianship.

CAN I LEARN TO PLAY DRUMS ?

Yes you can.  Only time will tell how far you decide to progress and it's always fun to drum.  You may find that you want to specialize in other areas of percussion - great ! We teach them all !

What does RESEARCH LED LEARNING mean ?

Traditional teaching methods tend to be based on TELLING rather than DISCOVERY. My researches into LEARNING METHODS are based on the latest research into learning, anthropology and neurology as well as my extensive practical experience.
My current reading list is mainly in the area of Critical Learning, The Democratised Classroom and Students as Researchers as well as the Evolution of Learning. Humans are amazing learning machines; complicated, inquisitive and full of fun. At drumcabin we are constantly looking for the best ways to learn the music we love.