1-2-1 Drum Lessons

Since the restrictions on movement imposed by the government in a bid to contain the Covid-19 outbreak I'm conducting most of my lessons over Skype, Zoom and FaceTime.

My studio has all the equipment I need to stream high quality video and audio, so as long as your internet connection is good you can receive the same high standard of teaching albeit at a distance that you would from a private, one to one lesson with me.

1 to 1 private lessons (face to face) are still available subject to government restrictions in both London & Birmingham.

My Student |Here's what they say...

Henry Appleby
London, England

Darren is one of the most interesting, intelligent, and passionate teachers I have come across in over 10 years of studying.
He never fails to deliver lessons/lectures that are not only informative but also inspiring and really make you want to go and play. This for me set Darren above previous tutors ive had because he goes the extra mile and breathes life into topics that could be dull.

Tom Needham
London, England

I have had lessons from Darren at the Institute and also privately and have found his teaching both hugely informative, beneficial and very inspiring! After having just a few private lessons I found my playing improved very quickly. Would recommend his teaching to anyone looking to improve! Thanks a lot Daz!

Andy Hill
Hungerford, England

Self-taught and having played for almost 30 years I decided I needed to think about learning to play the drums from first principles.
Darren, probably unwisely, agreed to the challenge of deconstructing and rebuilding my approach to drumming on every level and we've been working together for six years now with remarkable results.

If you want to get the most from your technique, build a foundation for greater creativity on the set and become a better musician, then Darren's your man.

A great teacher, a great mentor and a great drummer.

And a damned fine chap.

My Teaching Approach

The most important role of a drummer is to provide a solid time feel. Many timing issues can be traced to a weak technical foundation. Improving your technique will result in a higher level of consistency with both time keeping and dynamics and help you to execute your musical ideas with poise and control. This is an extremely important part of playing any instrument effectively and allows you to concentrate on listening and reacting, which is were the real music is made.

Acquiring instrumental vocabulary is another aspect of learning and instrument that is essential in helping us to communicate musically regardless of what genre you're performing in. There a whole host of ways to approach and achieve this. Having an effective and organised practice method is at the key to achieving this and will help your build on your successes as you improve.

I tend to emphasis a musical approach to my lessons, prescribing fun, yet practical exercises to help each student reach their maximum potential, regardless of their ability level.

Subjects Taught

Advanced hand & foot techniques.
Advanced time keeping and the development of pulse.
Linear drumming.
Coordination.
Styles: Rock, Funk, Jazz, Brazilian/Cuban.
Advanced techniques such as the down-up/Moeller technique.
Reading music.
Playing to tracks and working with a click.
Maximising your practice time.
Developing a professional attitude.
Mixing Drums.

How much do lessons cost?

My lessons cost £40 per hour, this includes all lessons notes and supplementary audio files.

Payments are by bank transfer BACS or Paypal.

How do I book a lessons?

If you wish to book a lesson feel free to get in touch via my contact page.

Please provide as much information in the message section so I can build up a good picture of where you're at in your playing, i.e. how old you are, how long you've been playing, your influences and what your drumming/musical goals are.

Take your drumming to the next level
Click here to book a lesson

My Students | Here's what they say...

Alberto Voglino
London, England

I had the pleasure of having Darren as a teacher for two years and the knowledge and skills I gained from him are priceless. His delivery is always clear, the content of the lessons is detailed and deeply prepared and his drumming is impeccable; there's always something to learn from him. I would suggest him to anyone who wants to bring his drumming to the next level.

Tom Goddard
Iver, England

I began having lessons with Darren when I decided that my reading needed improvement, since working regularly with Darren I have now secured a big band gig every Thursday and my reading has improved dramatically. Now Darren is dragging me kicking and screaming through the Moeller technique, It just goes to show that you can teach and old dog (50) new tricks.

Callum Sharp
Buckingham, England

The best lessons I've ever had! Darren really is an all-round teacher, concentrating highly on technique and 'real world' playing, not just concentrating from a book. The best drummer/teacher I've ever met!

My Students | Here's what they say...

Chus Gancedo
Torrelavega, Spain

Concise, clear and practical. Darren is an accomplished drummer and a great teacher, has things very clear and he´s able to get the best of each drummer and clarify your ideas, regardless of the level where you are. But I think beyond his musical abilities, I would remark his infectious positive attitude, something not very common today in the music world. Absolutely recommended!!!!

Huw Beynon
London, England

I've been playing drums for the past 13 years, and in that time no one has pushed my playing boundaries more than Darren. In his lessons and through watching him play, I've learnt some of the most important things about playing drums both in live and studio situations, and have gained invaluable knowledge which will no doubt be vital in my future career in the music industry. Darren is, in both my and other tutee's opinion, one of the best tutors that this country has to offer.

Emanuele Amatruda
London, England

Darren is for sure the best drum teacher I've ever had. His way of teaching
is straight and clear, he's never boring, and also he's a great motivator and
he always pushed me to overcome my limits! He also got a great technique and
he's a fabulous drummer able to play any style! His knowledge of all the aspect
of the drumming make him the perfect teacher! Legend!

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