Learning to play the drums IS about building musical skills and much more.
Hi I’m Gusten, a professional musician, teacher, and life-long learner. I have been teaching music for over 10 years in the greater Philadelphia area.
As a professional drummer with a degree in Music Education, I love teaching lessons to people of all ages. Learning to play the drums is about the music, but it’s also about resiliency, accountability, and growth. Whether you are 5 years old or 95 years old, taking drum lessons will allow you to strengthen life-long skills, explore your passions, and gain a deeper knowledge of yourself. Through music, we learn about ourselves, our goals, our skills, and our ability to persevere. These tools will help you thrive in all areas of life.
Let’s get started.
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MY TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
Taking on a new skill at any age is vulnerable. While you grow your musical abilities, you also learn the life-long benefits of practice, resilience, and accountability. When we work together, we will aim to embrace the learning process, grow from hard moments, and create a deep sense of joy through effort.
Through the process of learning drums, students will gain an understanding of the power of commitment and consistency, as well as an appreciation for the power of the brain and how it can be used to learn any subject at any age. Music is one of the greatest gifts of my life. It is my honor and privilege to share it with others.
Click here to learn more about my Teaching Philosophy
Who can benefit from Drum Lessons?
Elementary Aged Students
I started drum lessons at age 4 and never stopped. Music lessons are a wonderful way to foster passion as well as learn important life lessons in a fun and unique way. My students have many different backgrounds and personalities, yet all of them learn skills that benefit them for years to come: the importance of consistent practice, the joy of working hard, the benefits that come from giving yourself the opportunity to fail, try again, and then succeed. These are experiences that benefit all children, whether they are 4, 8, or 11.
Middle and High School Students
Students ages 12-18 work with me for a variety of reasons: perhaps they’ve been playing for a little while and want to expand their skills to make the jazz band. Perhaps they’re ready to take on a new skill that’s different from what they’re focused on in school - or reinforce what they’re working on already. Maybe you’re looking to help them find a new hobby that’s not on a screen. Perhaps it just sounds fun! Learning to play the drums during adolescence is a terrific way to foster curiosity toward learning, practice self compassion, develop resiliency, and build community.
ADULTS
You are never too old to learn an instrument. In fact, it can be the perfect time to either grow your practice and skillset or start a brand new learning experience. I’ve worked with adults from young 20’s through late 60’s, and it’s a joy to help you develop your skills and grow your passion for music and drumming. Each student receives a personalized curriculum based on their unique goals and schedule. Whether you are looking to expand your musical skills or just have fun, I will create a lesson plan that works for you. Learning throughout our lives is important for so many reasons and music is a fun and engaging way to grow.