Drum Set Programs
Drum Lessons – Beginner | Intermediate – Adult
In the Beginner Online program, we’ll cover topics like:
(Age 7 & up)
Basic Drum Set Components:
- Overview of the drum set parts (snare drum, bass drum, toms, cymbals).
- Understanding how to set up the kit. ( I have helped many students during in-person lessons with proper setup, etc.).
Proper Grip and Technique: This topic is very important. It progresses into the
Intermediate stages of Drumming (Snare and Drum set).
- How to hold drumsticks correctly (matched grip vs. traditional grip, and adjustments).
- Basic hand technique and studying stick control.
Basic Rhythm Concepts:
- Understanding beat, tempo, and rhythm.
- Learning to read simple rhythms in standard notation.
- Introduction to different note values (whole notes, half notes, quarter notes, eighth notes).
Basic Drum Grooves within different Genres:
- Simple Rock beats and fills.
- Basic coordination exercises (playing different rhythms – hands and feet Coordination).
- Introduction to common styles / Genres (rock, blues, jazz).
Simple Rudiments:
- Introduction to basic drum rudiments (single stroke roll, double stroke roll, Flams, and paradiddles).
- Importance rudiments help develop technique and musicality. This applies to a variety of styles, Concert Band to Rock n Roll, Jazz, R&B, and other bands you perform with in the future.
Counting and Playing with a Metronome:
- Learning to count aloud with different metronomes.
- Playing along with a metronome to develop timing.
- Work on internalizing the beat; very important. Continues throughout life doing music.
How it works:
Meet online (ZOOM) or in-person (Student’s residence)
Locations / Service areas include:
Dayton, Cincinnati, or Columbus, Ohio
Payments: Invoice by Email
Intermediate and above lessons (Rock to Jazz)
Professional Drum Lessons for
Adults & Post-College Drummers
Looking for drum lessons for Adults that go beyond basic beats?
I offer jazz-informed drum coaching. It is for motivated drummers/percussionists who want better time, feel, and musical confidence. Also, it provides a clear path ahead—whether you come from rock, pop, or a non-traditional background.
Based in Dayton, Ohio, with online drum lessons available worldwide.
WHO I WORK WITH
Drum Lessons Designed for Serious Adult Learners
These drum lessons are ideal if you:
- Are an adult drummer seeking structured, professional guidance
- Feel stuck between beginner and intermediate drum material
- Play rock or pop but want to learn jazz drumming fundamentals
- Want private drum lessons instead of random online videos
- Care about musicality, feel, and long-term development
If you’re searching for adult drum lessons emphasizing musicianship, you’re in the right place !
WHAT MAKES THESE DRUM LESSONS DIFFERENT
Jazz-Based Drum Instruction Translating to All Styles
Many drum teachers focus on technique alone.
My approach combines jazz drum education, practical musicianship, and real-world application (my experiences).
In our private drum lessons, we focus on:
- Time feel and groove development
- Jazz ride cymbal and comping concepts
- Independence and coordination
- Musical phrasing and dynamics
- Efficient, goal-oriented practice methods
Jazz concepts are taught clearly and practically—no intimidation, no exclusivity.
Private Drum Lessons (In-Person & Online)
One-on-one private drum lessons tailored to Adult learners and post-college drummers.
Available in:
- Dayton, Columbus, or Cincinnati, Ohio (in-person drum lessons)
- Online drum lessons via Zoom
These lessons are ideal for drummers looking for:
- Jazz drum instruction
- Rock-to-jazz transition coaching
- Long-term musical development
How it works:
Meet online (ZOOM) or in-person (Student’s residence)
Locations / Service areas include:
Dayton, Cincinnati, or Columbus, Ohio
Payments: Invoice by Email
Rock-to-Jazz Drum Coaching
A focused drum coaching path for rock and pop drummers who want to understand jazz drumming fundamentals.
Topics include:
- Jazz time feel and swing concepts
- Ride cymbal patterns and variations
- Comping basics and form awareness
- Applying jazz ideas to modern styles
(Targets: learn jazz drumming, jazz drum teacher)
Practice & Musical Development Coaching
For adult drummers who want accountability, structure, and clarity in their practice.
This coaching helps you:
- Build a consistent practice routine
- Develop musical intention
- Improve feel and confidence on drum set
How it works:
Meet online (ZOOM) or in-person (Student’s residence)
Locations / Service areas include:
Dayton, Cincinnati, or Columbus, Ohio
Payments: Invoice by Email
Jazz Drum Coaching – Focused
A focused drum coaching path for rock and pop drummers who want to understand jazz drumming fundamentals.
Topics include:
Applying jazz ideas to modern styles
Jazz time feel and swing concepts
Ride cymbal patterns and variations
Comping basics and form awareness
How it works:
Meet online (ZOOM) or in-person (Student’s residence)
Locations / Service areas include:
Dayton, Cincinnati, or Columbus, Ohio
Payments: Invoice by Email
Testimonials
Kerry is a dedicated, highly gifted artist in the percussion world not only as a performer but as a music teacher and educator. He is also an expert in the jazz and music composition recording field. In addition from having a great sense of humor, Kerry has vast knowledge of ethnic music and is a lifelong learner!
Vivian Johnston – Tune4Success
Kerry is not only an extremely talented musician, he is a great writer/arranger- The full ‘package’! A friend, and a fellow musician-an easy recommendation!!!!
Dave MacDonald – Chronic Pain (Musician/Band)
Kerry has the perfect blend of organization, drive and creativity and to top it off, he is a master of his craft! While I’ve known him for over three decades, I don’t have the opportunity to work with him with any regularity. I still wouldn’t hesitate to give him the highest recommendation.
Russ Long – DangerLand
Kerry certainly has the experience, both in teaching and performing. When someone like Kerry teaches, he brings both his knowledge from his degrees, and his experience from performing. Working with Kerry, I know for a fact that not only is he talented, but he is professional all the way, and takes his work very seriously. You will not be disappointed if you choose to hire Kerry!
Samantha Carlson
(Singer/Teacher in NYC)
“Kerry is such a great guy to be around as well as a very talented and knowledgeable drummer! I always enjoy sharing the stage with him every time we play together. His musicality and professionalism can be both seen and heard on and off the stage. I recommend him for any and all types of events where his services are needed.”
Aaron Trincado– Saxophonist (www.aaronTrincadoMusic.com)
READY TO START ? !
Let’s have a conversation about your specific requirements and how I can best meet your needs. I believe a discussion over a call would allow us to dive into the details and provide a personalized approach.