educator
In addition to performing in the epicenter of music history, such as New York’s famed Birdland, The Iridium, The Bottom Line, and Radio City Music Hall. DK has also had the tremendous pleasure of sharing passion and knowledge with the widest possible range of students, including toddlers and adults, novices and professionals, and pupils from China, Japan, India, Botswana, Argentina, Spain, France, the Dominican Republic, and The Philippines, among many other nations.
Method
Through games, performance, music theory, and personal stories of life as a musician, DK teaches students how to play each percussive instrument, while they learn the history and origin of drums and percussion from all over the world. All kinds of percussion are used, such as hand drums, drums set, cymbals, xylophone, snare drum, shakers, conga, djembe, et cetera. In addition, DK teaches students music notation, ear training, dynamics, listening skills, tempo and meter, musicality, improvisation, how to work together as a band, and more. Every level is encouraged, instilling the confidence required to participate, be creative, perform, and have fun. Their musical experience will serve them well throughout life, no matter what path they choose. Students will be exposed to all styles of music and rhythms, but above all, DK shares an eduring passion for music and drumming.
Individual Lessons
One-on-one lessons for the drum kit, available in person or online. All styles, all levels. Learn technique, various beats and their origin, and basic music theory.
30 minutes $50
60 minutes $75
Percussion Ensembles
DK composes percussion pieces for the class to perform. They receive a written part and a recording, if needed. The class is divided up into different instrument groups, much like an orchestra. When all the parts are played together, with practice, the class has an energetic and fun composition that they can play together. All students will be involved in the performance.
These percussion ensemble compositions are also available for purchase for teachers who already have percussion ensembles. The kit includes a conductor’s score, separate parts per instrument / section, and a recording of the composition. Kits are offered for beginners, intermediate, and advanced groups.
Diverse Background
DK graduated Magna Cum Laude from Hunter College in NYC (2015) with a degree in music. Also studied at The Drummers Collective, a world-renowned school in New York City. Graduated from The Center for Media Arts with a certification in audio engineering. DK was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, but has had the honor to play and teach throughout the country and overseas, including a university course for students in Amsterdam.