Music Studio in 10 Years

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Where do I see my music studio in 10 years?

I read an article that inspired me to think about where my music studio may be in 10 years. I’m pretty excited about it.

I’ve been teaching music for over 20 years, and absolutely love it. The studio will always be a work in progress since there are new technologies and gadgets hitting the market all the time. But trying things out is a lot of fun! My goal has always been to put together a state-of-the-art facility where students of all ages and skill levels can come to learn and grow musically.

The Big Projects

First and foremost, it would be so nice to completely finish and soundproof the studio. Having a lower floor bathroom, drum riser, and a control room would really complete it nicely. I also want to make sure that the soundproofing is top-notch so the neighbors can finally get some sleep.  It would be a lot of fun to eventually include workshops for songwriting and music theory.

Exploring new ways to use technology during the lessons is always inspiring. It would be incredible to try virtual reality to give students the experience of playing in different venues. That technology is still in the infant stages, so it may be a little while before that will happen. Most importantly, creating an environment where the students are inspired to learn and grow musically in.

The Studio Layout Today

This is the current layout today. It is so much easier to create a balanced and full sound for jam sessions with most everything going through the sound board. The computer screens were the most recent addition and made a big difference when reading tablature and music charts. This is so nice for anyone who has a tough time seeing the smaller musical notation. These lights are usually only on during the one on one lessons, but this is what it looks like at the jam sessions. Some students do request different lighting during their lessons so they can really get into the music.

Studio In 10 Years

Current Studio Layout

Music Studio in 10 years

Behind the Drums

Music Studio in 10 Years

Monitor for the Students-Bottom Left

A Year Ago…

Adding rubber mats to the floor really helped both with comfort and sound. This was taken shortly after getting the new drum set and completely covering the floor in mats. Still needed some amplifier stands, stage monitors, and a fogger. This was probably the biggest improvement to the sound so far. The next step was video monitors for the students to use as a guide when at the jam sessions. Video monitors made things really easy when we did the blues jams. It allowed a ton of spontaneity if students wanted to try different keys or rhythms.

Early picture of the studio

A year ago

A Few Years Ago…

The acoustic drums were always hard to keep at a low level and still create energy. Having added the acoustic panels helped tremendously. The next step after this was adding the electric drum set which made a huge difference. The sound can now be easily mixed, this really helped the beginner drummers out.

A few years ago

Several Years Ago…

I am almost embarrassed to say this, but initially I used beach towels in order to make it dark enough to get the lighting to work. We played on the concrete flooring surrounded by concrete walls. This was a nightmare since the sound bounced everywhere and was definitely hard to control. The students were awesome and did really well at the jam. But, it was a lot of sound in a small cement room.

My Studio in 10 years

Jazmin (12) on Drums-She is in college now but still taking guitar lessons!

The Future

I doubt I’ll ever truly retire, so it will be interesting to see what technology does to the studio. I don’t plan to ever abandon the traditional one on one lessons set up. But trying out new things that inspire students to make music their passion is what makes teaching so much fun. If you are interested in trying out a lesson or have some ideas you’d like to share, feel free to contact me.

Drums in the Studio

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Using Drums in the Studio to Help Guitar and Bass Students

Using drums in the studio can be a great way to help guitar and bass students improve their skills. After becoming a drum teacher, I realized just how valuable the experience is for other musicians. Having my students either play along with the drums or sit at the kit and play a rhythm has made a huge difference. Even if they only tried it once, they still became more aware of how everything fit together.

Laying Down a Rhythm

Jamming with a drummer helps students learn groove and timing. Playing to favorite songs gives them real-time practice. This method teaches them to listen and lock into a groove. For bassists, this is invaluable. Being able to respond to the drummers cues can bring a bassist to a whole new level of playing.

Drums in the Studio

Drum Set at the Greeley Studio

Learning Note Values by Hopping on the Drums

Playing the drums is a great way to learn note values in a hands-on way. Students can learn how different note values feel by playing them on the drums. For example, a quarter note is one beat long, so a student would play it by hitting the drum once. A half note is two beats long, so a student would play it by hitting the drum and holding it, and so on. This can help students to better understand note values and how they relate to rhythm. If they try a simple beat with the kick on 1 and snare on 3, they can then transfer that knowledge to guitar or bass and have a better understanding of time signatures.

Counting from a Whole New Perspective

Counting is an essential skill for all musicians, but it can sometimes get a bit challenging. Drummers are constantly counting, so getting behind the drum set sometime during the lesson can help students to develop their counting skills. They will learn how to count different time signatures and rhythms, and they will also learn how to count in different ways.

Using drums in the studio is a great way to help guitar and bass students improve their skills in a fun and engaging way. It is also a great way to build and develop a deeper understanding of music.

If you have any questions about drums in the studio or are interested in lessons, please contact me.

Technology: A Guitar Instructor’s Best Friend

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Technology: A Guitar Instructor’s Best Friend

Technology has come a long way in recent years, and its impact on the music industry has been nothing short of revolutionary. Guitar instructors have been among the first to embrace new technologies, and they are now using them to teach in ways that were never before possible.

How technology is changing and continues to help guitar instructors

Technology is changing the way guitar instructors teach in a number of ways. For example, instructors can now use video conferencing software to give lessons to students who live far away or who are unable to travel to their studio. This has made guitar lessons more accessible than ever before.

In addition, technology is making it easier for guitar instructors to create and deliver engaging lesson materials. For example, instructors can use music notation software to create custom sheet music for their students. They can also use video editing software to create instructional videos that students can watch at their own pace.

Benefits for Private Music Lessons

 

Saving time and being more efficient

Teachers can use online lesson platforms to schedule and manage their lessons more easily. They can also use these platforms to send students lesson materials and to track their progress. There are a number of different online tools available for creating and sharing lesson materials, such as Google Docs, Dropbox, and Evernote. These tools allow instructors to create and store lesson materials in a central location, which makes it easy to access and share them with students.

Recording software

Recording software allows teachers to record their students’ playing. This is a great way for students to track their progress and identify areas where they need to improve. Guitar instructors can use recording software to help their students learn new songs and techniques. One excellent app is Audacity which is free. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Audacity is a good option for guitar teachers who are on a budget or who are new to recording software. This is wonderful software for preparing students for events such as a talent show. It allows teachers to mix song tracks for the students to play along with.

 

Making lessons more engaging

Technology can help teachers make their lessons more engaging for their students. For example, teachers can use interactive learning tools to help students practice their strumming patterns and timing on songs or even increase the speed of their solos.  Technology can also be used to create backing tracks for students to practice with. This makes practicing really fun while developing their timing and rhythmic skills.

Tuning apps

Tuning apps have made it easier than ever for guitarists to tune their instruments. This is a huge benefit for both beginners and experienced players alike. Guitar instructors can use tuning apps to help their students quickly and easily get their guitars in tune, so they can focus on learning and playing.

Guitar Tuner

Guitar Tuner

Final Thoughts

Overall, technology is having a positive impact on guitar instruction. It is making it easier for students to access guitar lessons, and it is helping guitar instructors to teach more effectively. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to use technology in guitar instruction.

If you are interested in guitar, bass, ukulele, or drum lessons, please contact me. I will get back to you within 24 hours.

Drum Practice Pads

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A Drummer’s Guide to the Best Practice Pads: Rubber, Mesh, and Gel

Drum practice pads are an essential tool for any drummer, regardless of their skill level. They allow you to hone your technique, develop new skills, and improve your overall playing. But with so many different types of practice pads on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

Let’s take a look at the three most popular types of practice pads: rubber, mesh, and gel. Then I’ll mention some of their pros and cons to help you choose the best pad for your needs.

Rubber Drum Practice Pads

Rubber practice pads are the most common type of practice pad. They’re affordable, durable, and easy to find. Rubber pads provide a good rebound and a consistent feel, making them ideal for practicing rudiments and other technical exercises.

Drum Practice Pad

My well used drum practice pad

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Durable
  • Easy to find
  • Good rebound and more realistic feel
  • Consistent feel

Cons:

  • Can be noisy
  • May not be as comfortable for playing for long periods of time

Mesh Pads

Mesh practice pads are becoming increasingly popular among drummers. They offer a more comfortably feel thanks to their synthetic drumhead surface. Mesh pads are also quieter than rubber pads, making them a good choice for practicing in apartments or other shared spaces.

Pros:

  • More comfortably than rubber pads
  • Quieter than rubber pads
  • Can be used with electronic drum triggers

Cons:

  • More expensive than rubber pads
  • Can be damaged more easily
  • May not be as durable as rubber pads

Gel Pads

Gel practice pads are a newer type of practice pad that offers a unique feel. They are made of a soft, squishy material that provides a very different rebound than rubber or mesh pads. These pads are often used by drummers who are looking for a workout and would like to practice their accents and doubles.

Pros:

  • Soft, squishy rebound
  • Can be used to practice different techniques, such as ghost notes and double strokes
  • Builds endurance and wrist strength

Cons:

  • More expensive than rubber or mesh pads
  • Hard to practice on for long periods of time
  • May not be as durable as rubber or mesh pads
  • Not as realistic as mesh or rubber pads

 

What type of practice pad is right for you?

If you’re just starting out, or if you’re on a budget, a rubber practice pad is a good option. Rubber pads are affordable, durable, and easy to find.

If you’re looking for a more comfortable feel, or if you need a practice pad that is quiet enough to use in a shared space, a mesh practice pad is a good choice. Mesh pads are also a good option if you plan on using your practice pad with electronic drum triggers.

If you’re looking for a practice pad that provides a good workout, or if you want to practice different techniques, such as ghost notes and double strokes, a gel practice pad may be a good option for you.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right practice pad for you is to try out a few different types and see what feels best. Most music stores have a selection of practice pads that you can try out before you buy.

Here are a few additional tips for choosing a practice pad:

  • Consider the size of the pad. A smaller pad can be better for beginners since it requires the sticks to hit in a small and specific location. However, if you want to be able to practice different techniques, such as playing multiple drums at the same time, you may want to choose a larger pad.
  • Think about the type of surface you’ll be playing on. If you’re going to be playing on a hard surface, such as a table or desk, you may want a pad with a good rebound.
  • Consider your budget. Practice pads can range in price from around $10 to $100. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about drum practice pads or would like to try drum lessons.

Why Drum Notation Varies

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Drum Kits

There are a few reasons why drum notation varies so much. The main reason is that drum kits are diverse. There is no standard drum kit, and drummers can use a wide variety of drums and cymbals to create their sound. This makes it difficult to develop a single, standardized way to notate all the possible combinations of drums and cymbals that a drummer might use.

Pitch

Drums are non-pitched percussion instruments. Unlike pitched percussion instruments, such as the xylophone or timpani, drums do not have specific pitches. This means that there is no single way to represent the different sounds of drums on a musical staff.

Complex Rhythms

Drum notation is often used to communicate complex rhythms. Drums can be used to play a wide variety of rhythms, from simple beats to complex patterns. This can make it difficult to notate drum parts in a way that is both clear and concise.

Trying to Standardize Drum Notation

As a result of these factors, there is a wide variety of different ways to notate drum parts. Some common practices in method books and popular software use these for standard drum notation:

 

Drum Notation

Drum Notation Guitar Pro

Here are some specific examples of how drum notation varies:

  • Using different noteheads to represent different drums and cymbals. For example, a solid notehead might be used to represent a snare drum, while a cross notehead might be used to represent a cymbal.
  • Using different staff positions to represent different drums and cymbals. For example, the snare drum might be notated on the third space of the staff, while the hi-hat might be notated on the top line or even above the staff itself.
  • Using additional notation symbols to indicate different playing techniques. For example, a slash through a note might indicate a ghost note, while a dot on a note might indicate a half-power hit.

In addition to these common practices, there are also many different idiosyncratic ways to notate drum parts. Some drummers and composers develop their own personal notation systems to communicate their specific ideas to other drummers.

It is important to note that there is no single “correct” way to notate drums. The best way to notate a drum part will depend on the specific needs of the drummer and the composer.

Hopefully this helps clear up why drum notation can be so confusing. The best thing to do is to listen to the song and get a feel for what is happening. Then it is much easier to see how the composer transcribes the music onto paper. If you have any questions about drums, feel free to contact me.

From Ukulele to Guitar

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From uke to guitar: A fun and easy transition

If you’re already a ukulele player, you’re halfway to becoming a guitar player! The two instruments are very similar, and the skills you’ve learned on the uke will transfer easily to the guitar. I’ll touch on some ideas on how to transition from ukulele to guitar.

What are the similarities between the ukulele and guitar?

  • Chord shapes: The chord shapes you’ve learned on the ukulele can be used to play the same chords on the guitar, they just have a different name.
  • Strumming patterns: The strumming patterns you use on the ukulele can also be used on the guitar. There are a few more options with 6 strings, but the ukulele patterns work perfectly.
From Ukulele to Guitar

Tenor Ukulele

What are the differences between the ukulele and guitar?

  • Size: The guitar is considerably larger than the ukulele, with a longer neck and wider fretboard. This can take some getting used to, but it’s not as difficult as it may seem.
  • Number of strings: The guitar generally has six strings, while the ukulele has four. This means that there are more chords and strumming patterns you can learn on the guitar. And if you play a baritone ukulele, the four strings are the same as the guitar.
  • Sound: The guitar has a fuller, richer sound than the ukulele. This is because the guitar has a larger body and longer strings.

How to make the transition from ukulele to guitar

  1. Get a guitar

The first step is to get a guitar. You may want to start with an electric or classical since the strings will be much easier to press down. The electric guitar strings are thinner than an acoustic and the classical guitar uses the nylon strings similar to the ukulele.

There are many different types of guitars available, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for you. If you’re not sure where to start, ask a music teacher for recommendations.

  1. Learn the open strings

The first thing you need to learn on any fretted instrument are the open strings. These are the notes that the strings produce when you play them without pressing down on any frets. On the guitar, the open strings are E, A, D, G, B, and E.

  1. Learn the basic chord shapes

Once you know the open strings, you can start learning the names of the chords on the guitar. This should be very easy since the chord shapes are the same as the ukulele but the names are different.

  1. Learn some strumming patterns

Once you know some basic chord shapes, you can start learning some new strumming patterns. There are many different strumming patterns you can use on the guitar, but there are a few basic patterns that are not possible on the ukulele such as the strum pattern with an alternate bass.

  1. Practice, practice, practice!

The best way to learn to play the guitar is to practice regularly. Try to practice for at least 20 minutes every other day. Practicing the ukulele songs you already know is the quickest way to get started.

Here are some additional tips for making the transition from ukulele to guitar

  • Use a capo: A capo is a device that clamps down on the neck of a guitar and raises the pitch of all of the strings. If you capo at fret 5 on the guitar, the chords will be the exact same as the ukulele on strings 1-4. Pretty cool!
  • Find a teacher: If you’re struggling to learn on your own, consider finding a guitar teacher. A good teacher can help you learn the basics of guitar playing and avoid developing bad habits.

Here are some easy songs to learn on guitar:

  • Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan
  • Wonderwall by Oasis
  • Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen
  • Hey Jude by The Beatles
  • I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

Final Thoughts

The transition from ukulele to guitar is easier than you might think. With a little practice, you’ll be playing guitar like a pro in no time! Just remember to start with the basics.

Fun fact: Did you know that many famous guitarists started out playing the ukulele? Some examples include Elvis Presley, George Harrison, and Brian May.

If you would like to get some more information on what type of guitar to choose, feel free to contact me, I’d be happy to help!

Guitar Lessons: Jam Session

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Read more

Acoustic vs. Electric Drums

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Acoustic vs. Electric Drums: A Tale of Two Beats

In the world of drumming, I discovered drummers are divided when it comes to the type of drums to purchase. Similar to the iPhone and Android debate, drummers often square off when it comes to the acoustic vs electric drums.  Each has its own unique sound, feel, and advantages. If you’re thinking about picking up the sticks, it’s important to understand the difference between the two so you can choose the right one for your style.

Acoustic Drums: The Classics

Acoustic drums are the traditional type of drum kit. They consist of a variety of drums and cymbals, all made of natural materials such as wood, metal, and skin. The sound is produced by hitting the heads with sticks or mallets, causing them to vibrate. The resulting sound is rich, warm, and full-bodied.

Acoustic drums are a popular choice for both beginners and experienced drummers. They’re known for their versatile sound that can be used in a wide variety of genres. They’re also a great way to develop your drumming technique. However, acoustic drums can be quite loud, making them difficult to practice in apartments or other noise-sensitive environments. They can also be expensive and difficult to transport.

Electric Drums: The Sound of the Future

Electronic Drums

Electronic Drums

Electric drums are a newer type of drum kit. They consist of pads that are connected to an electronic sound module. The pads are made of a variety of materials, such as rubber, plastic, or mesh. When you hit a pad, it sends a signal to the sound module, which triggers a sample of a drum or cymbal sound. The sound is then amplified through headphones or speakers.

Electric drums have a number of advantages over acoustic drums. They’re much quieter, making them ideal for practicing in apartments or other noise-sensitive environments. They’re also more portable and easier to transport. Additionally, electric drums offer a wide variety of sounds, allowing you to experiment with different genres and styles. They are also much easier to dial in and balance when performing at a gig.

However, electric drums can also have some disadvantages. The feel of the pads can be different from that of acoustic drums. Some drummers find that electric drums don’t have the same dynamic range as acoustic drums. Also, there is no way to stop the ringing of the cymbals after hitting them, at least on the lower priced sets.

So, which type of drum is right for you?

The answer depends on a number of factors, including your playing style, budget, and practice environment. If you’re looking for a classic sound and feel, acoustic drums are a great choice. If you need a quieter, more portable option, electric drums are a good way to go.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between acoustic and electric drums:

Features on Acoustic Drums vs Electric

Acoustic Drums:

  • Sound-Natural, organic
  • Feel-Responsive, dynamic
  • Volume-Loud
  • Portability-Difficult
  • Cost-Less expensive
  • Variety of sounds-Limited

Electric Drums:

  • Sound-Sampled
  • Feel-Consistent, adjustable
  • Volume-Adjustable to any volume, can be used in a quiet environment
  • Portability-Easy
  • Cost-More expensive
  • Variety of sounds-Unlimited

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of drum is right for you is to try them both out. Go to a local music store and play a few different kits to see what you prefer. You may also want to talk to a drum teacher or experienced drummer to get their advice. No matter which type of drum you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the music!

If you have any questions or are interested in beginner drum lessons, feel free to contact me.

Types of Drumsticks

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Drumstick Guide for the Beginner

Drumsticks are one of the most important tools for any drummer. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique sound and feel. It’s important to know the different types of drumsticks if you are a beginner so you can choose the ones that are right for you.

The Basics

The most common way to categorize drumsticks is by their size and weight. The size of a drumstick is measured by its diameter, which is typically expressed in inches. The weight of a drumstick is measured by its taper, which is the difference in thickness between the tip and the handle.

The most common sizes of drumsticks are 5A, 5B, and 7A. 5A drumsticks are the standard size and are a good all-around choice for most drummers. 5B drumsticks are slightly larger and heavier than 5A drumsticks, and they produce a warmer, fuller sound. 7A drumsticks are smaller and lighter than 5A drumsticks, and they produce a brighter, sharper sound.

The Tip

The tip of a drumstick is the part that makes contact with the drumhead. There are five basic types of drumstick tips:

  • Oval tips are the most common type of tip. They produce a balanced sound and are a good choice for most drummers.
  • Teardrop tips produce a brighter sound than oval tips. They are a good choice for drummers who play a lot of cymbals.
  • Round tips produce a softer sound than oval tips. They are a good choice for drummers who play jazz or other genres that require a light touch.
  • Acorn tips produce a warmer, fuller sound than oval tips. They are a good choice for drummers who play rock or other genres that require a heavy sound.
  • Barrel tips produce a very bright sound. They are a good choice for drummers who play a lot of high-pitched percussion instruments.

The Wood

The wood that a drumstick is made from also affects its sound and feel. The most common woods used for drumsticks are maple, hickory, and oak.

  • Maple drumsticks are the lightest wood used for drumsticks. They produce a bright, sharp sound and are a good choice for drummers who play a lot of rock or metal.
  • Hickory drumsticks are the heaviest wood used for drumsticks. They produce a warmer, fuller sound and are a good choice for drummers who play a variety of genres.
  • Oak drumsticks are a good compromise between maple and hickory. They produce a balanced sound and are a good choice for drummers who play a variety of genres.

Other Considerations

In addition to size, weight, tip, and wood, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing drumsticks. These include:

  • The length of the stick: Longer sticks produce a lower sound, while shorter sticks produce a higher sound.
  • The taper of the stick: A gradual taper produces a smoother sound, while a sharp taper produces a more pronounced attack.
  • The grip: Some drummers prefer sticks with a smooth grip, while others prefer sticks with a textured grip.

The Right Drumsticks for You

The best way to choose the right drumsticks for you is to experiment and find what feels and sounds best. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so don’t be afraid to try different types of sticks until you find the perfect ones for you.

Here are a few tips for choosing drumsticks:

  • Consider the type of music you play. If you play a lot of rock, you’ll need sticks that produce a bright, sharp sound. If you play a lot of jazz, you’ll need sticks that produce a softer, more mellow sound.
  • Think about your playing style. If you’re a heavy hitter, you’ll need sticks that are durable and can withstand a lot of abuse. If you’re a light hitter, you can get away with using lighter sticks.
  • Experiment with different sizes and weights. There’s no right or wrong answer, so it’s important to find what feels and sounds best to you.
  • Talk to other drummers. Ask your friends, bandmates, or teachers what sticks they use and why they like them.

Here are some of the most popular standard drumsticks:

Vic Firth American Classic 5A

Vic Firth American Classic 5A

  • Vater Los Angeles 5A: These sticks are slightly heavier than the Vic Firth 5A’s, making them a good choice for drummers who want a more powerful sound.
Vater Los Angeles 5A

Vater Los Angeles 5A Drumsticks

  • Zildjian A Custom: These sticks are made of maple and have an oval tip. They’re a favorite among jazz drummers for their warm, mellow sound.
Zildjian A Custom

Zildjian A Custom Drumsticks

If you would like to try a free drum lessons, contact me and we’ll set up time to get together and kick off your next new adventure!

Teaching Drums

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Teaching Drums

 

Teaching Drums

Playing drums at the jam session

I’ve been a guitar teacher for over 20 years and really love it. I get to share my passion for music with students of all ages, and it’s so rewarding to see them progress and learn new things. But there’s always been one thing that’s been missing from my career: teaching drums. I’ve always loved the drums, but never took the time to get serious about them and really learn how to play.

The Inspiration

A few years ago, I decided to finally take the plunge and purchased an electric drum set. All it took was a song by Icehouse called Icehouse to really inspire me. I sat for hours working on getting the beat down after watching their live show in Australia. I discovered it’s one of those instruments that does require a ton of practice.

Playing the drums is a completely different experience from playing the guitar. It’s more physical and more demanding. I’ve had to build up my stamina and strength to keep up with the other band members, especially after playing the guitar. But I love learning a new instrument, and I’m really enjoying the process of becoming a drummer.

Teaching Drums to Students

One of the things that I’m most excited about is the opportunity to teach drums. I think that my experience as a guitar teacher will give me a unique perspective on teaching drums, and I’m really looking forward to sharing that with others.

I’ve been backing up my students at the jam sessions and am still in the early stages of my drumming journey, but making progress every day. I’m excited to see where this new adventure takes me, and can’t wait to pass along this experience with other drum students.

I currently have a couple of drum students, but will be in full swing by December of this year. If you are considering trying the drums, please send me message. It would be great to show you the stuff that inspired me and break down the beats of your favorite songs.