I began my drumming career as a self-taught drummer. It is highly possible that if I had taken drum lessons in growing up, I would have become more proficient at a faster pace. You can do a lot by yourself as an individual, but with the proper help you can excel even quicker. Over the years many students have come to me with no teaching at all, and as a result they had found themselves in a drummer’s rut. Some of them had even gone as far as they could by learning on their own and wanted me to help them to progress further.

I enjoy playing the drums and have done this for over 30 years. My memories go back to the exact moment when I first wanted to play the drums.

When I was in the second grade, my mom, sister and I went to a PTA meeting at Auburndale Elementary School (in Louisville, KY). We were running late for the meeting, and as we entered, everyone began to stand for the National Anthem. So we went to stand over on the left side of the cafeteria wall. My shortness at that age prohibited me from seeing all that was going on, but the song started off with the snare drumroll. As soon as I heard that, I asked my mom, “What is that?” and she said, “A drum.” I replied saying that I wanted to play that and she said, “Shhh, be quiet.” Of course I was not paying attention to the fact that the song was playing and my talking could interrupt the people around us. This memory started it all. As soon as I heard that drumroll, something rose up inside me and I knew I wanted to play the drums.

After waiting for approximately three years (now going into the 5th grade), I finally had the chance to join the band for a drummer’s position. The band director had made many attempts at getting me to play the trumpet, saxophone, and pretty much so any instrument they had need of for the band each year. However, with my desire to really play the drums, I waited it out for a few years until the opportunity came. I have been playing the drums ever since.

I started teaching drum lessons back in the late 80′s to students at Evangel Christian Life Center, for the kids praise band. My clientele base extended to other students as well. That lasted for a solid time period, until I moved. I began teaching again right here in Cookeville, TN in about 2003 and have had many students over the years, from all ages. Teaching drums is a gift I have really enjoyed. For some reason, I can relate simple to complex beats to any drummer who is willing to learn.

The two mentors that really impacted my career and advanced my skills are Zoro the Drummer and Troy Hatcher, both renowned drummers of the modern day. Some other drummers I enjoy listening to are Steve Gadd, Steve Smith from Journey, Jeff Proacco, and Buddy Rich.

Behind every drummer is an instructor, whether in book or in person. Despite my many years of drumming experience, I have also been furthering my skills with my mentor Zoro the drummer.