VERY EXPERIENCED DRUM TEACHER IN MY SE STUDIO!

THE DRUMS, possibly the fastest growing instrument in the world. It is also one of the most fun instruments to play. Like every instrument, consistency and commitment are the quintessential to success. There is no short cut.
Unfortunately, the drum set is the most misunderstood instrument. It is NOT an instrument that you 'bash on'. Just like the next percussion instrument - the piano, you learn proper 'touch' on the instrument, proper technique so as not to cause injury, sound contrast, dynamic contrast, and consistent tempo.
Unlike most instruments, the drum set is a collection of 5 instruments put together as one instrument. It's all about muscle memory. Practising requires 1/2 hour a day, 4 or 5 days a week.
Each lesson is tailored to the individual's goals. Using a program that mutes the drum part, I show students how to play for the music, rather than just aimlessly learning drum patterns. In other words, I help students of the drum set become musicians. Every pattern learned has to make sense as to why we learn that pattern. Playing drums is only as good as supporting the music.

My rate is $40.00 per hour. I offer 1 hour or 90 minute lessons weekly, or bi-weekly. I am available, seven days a week from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
I accept adults, seniors, and students from Grade 7 to 12 who need help with their music in their jazz school band, or music in general that they are struggling with. Kids younger than 10 years old, you will be vetted by myself to see if we are a good fit for each other.

THE FOLLOWING IS MY RESUME:
Bachelor of Science, Brandon University, Mathematics, Psychology.
Instruments: Drum set, snare drum, timpani, Conga(and various percussion instruments).
June 2000 to 2004. Private teaching in Powell River, B.C.
June 2005 to 2020. Private teaching in Calgary, AB.
Leave of Absence from 2021 to 2023.
Position: Drum teacher.
1977:
Percussion player for the Hong Kong Youth Symphony Orchestra. Toured the U.K. & France.
1978: Performed with the Sino-British Theater company. Performing musicals such as ‘Godspell'.
1983 to 2006:
Toured with multiple bands across Manitoba and ON. Genre covered(rock, pop, reggae, jazz, funk, Latin jazz). Played the following festivals:
The Pendor Harbor jazz festival.
The Surrey Jazz Festival.
The Powell River vocal jazz Ensemble.
The Brad Turner trio.
The Kathaumixw International choral festival.
The Vancouver Brass Section(of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra).
The Walter Martella Trio.
Spent a 12 hour master class with the world renowned, Dave Weckl.
Performed with Hilario Duran and Cody Hutchinson at the Calgary National Music Center(Cody Hutchinson is a phenomenal bass player. Cody is also the organizer of the YYC Calgary Jazz Festival. Cody is also one of the D.J.s of CKUA).

1990 to present: Completed the following published material:
‘Stick Control’ by George Lawrence Stone.
‘Syncopation’ by Ted Reed.
‘Advanced Technique for the Modern Drummer’ by Jim Chapin.
‘The New Breed’ by Gary Chester.
‘The Funky Beat’ by David Garibaldi.
‘Serious Moves’ by Dennis Chambers.
‘The Next Step’ by Dave Weckl.
‘When In Doubt, Roll!’ by Bill Bruford.
‘By Design’ by Billy Cobham.
‘Groove Essentials’ by Tommy Igoe.
‘The Drum Perspective’ by Peter Erskine.

"I truly appreciate my drum teacher for his patience, dedication, and passion for music. Phoenix not only teaches with skill but also inspires me to push my limits and grow as a drummer. I really appreciate his ability to break down complex rhythms and techniques into something understandable. It has made a huge difference in my progress. Every lesson is engaging and motivating, and I always walk away feeling more confident. I love his accents that he makes because they make me laugh a lot. I’m grateful for Phoenix's guidance and the encouragement he provides—it’s clear he genuinely cares about his students’ success. THANK YOU TONY FOR BEING SO AMAZING!!!!"

"I’ve had the pleasure of learning from Phoenix and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience. He is incredibly kind and approachable, making every lesson feel comfortable and enjoyable. His deep knowledge of drumming is evident in the way he explains techniques and concepts – everything is clear, thorough, and easy to understand.

What truly stands out is his patience. Whether I'm struggling with a particular rhythm or technique, he takes the time to ensure I grasp it before moving on. His talent and passion for drumming shine through in every session, and his ability to teach is just as impressive as his playing.

I highly recommend Phoenix to anyone looking to improve their drumming skills. He’s not only a fantastic instructor but also a wonderful person to learn from!"