drum set and percussions

We believe rhythmic fluency should be both joyful and precise. Our drum set and percussion curriculum is designed to build a rock-solid technical foundation, expand musical vocabulary across styles, and develop well-rounded, versatile percussionists from the very first lesson through advanced study.

Beginning Level

Beginning drum and percussion students start by developing a solid foundation in rhythmic notation and rudiments using Alfred’s Drum Method, Book 1 and The Drummer’s Complete Vocabulary as Taught by Alan Dawson. Alongside core snare drum technique, students are introduced to basic time-keeping on hand drums and a variety of percussion instruments, building coordination and musicality from the earliest stages of study.

A strong grasp of rhythmic notation is essential for the transition to drum set. Beginning beats and grooves are drawn from Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice, with fills sourced from multiple references as well as custom handwritten exercises tailored to each student’s individual needs.

Intermediate Level

Intermediate students expand their technical vocabulary through the study of compound rudiments, advanced dynamic markings, accents, and more complex sticking patterns. Primary texts include:

• Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone

• The All-American Drummer by Charley Wilcoxon

• Supplementary handwritten exercises designed to strengthen specific areas of each student’s overall proficiency

Advanced Level

Advanced students explore polyrhythms as applied to the drum set, along with in-depth study of four-limb independence. Core texts include:

• Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer by Jim Chapin

• 14 Modern Contest Solos by John S. Pratt

• Rudimental Solos for Accomplished Drummers by John S. Pratt

• Accents and Rebounds by George Lawrence Stone

• Additional handwritten exercises addressing specific technical and musical goals

All styles of drum set performance are covered, including Rock, Jazz, Latin, and contemporary Pop drumming.

Mallet Percussion

Mallet studies begin with Modern School for Xylophone, Marimba, and Vibraphone by Morris Goldenberg, progressing to more advanced repertoire and technique as the student develops.

Timpani

Students are introduced to the fundamental techniques of timpani playing, including proper mallet selection, stroke technique, tuning by ear, and pedal operation. Studies cover orchestral excerpts, rolls, dampening, and dynamic control. Repertoire and method books are selected based on the student’s level and musical goals.

Bass Drum

Concert bass drum technique is addressed, covering tone production, muffling, stroke control, and its role within the percussion section. Students develop sensitivity to blend and balance in ensemble contexts.

Latin Percussion

Students explore the rich tradition of Latin percussion, with hands-on instruction in instruments including:

• Congas – hand technique, tones, open and muted strokes, basic patterns

• Bongos – martillo pattern, hand technique, and soloing concepts

• Timbales – shell and rim patterns, cáscara, and mambo bell

• Claves, Cowbell, Shakers, and Güiro – foundational rhythmic patterns and their role in various Latin styles

Styles explored include Son, Salsa, Afro-Cuban, Samba, Bossa Nova, and Cumbia.

Primary curriculum text: Essential Latin Styles for the Drumset by Doug Auwarter.

Additional Percussion Instruments to Explore

As part of a well-rounded percussionist’s education, students have the opportunity to explore and develop familiarity with a broad range of instruments, including:

• Drum Kit Hybrids & Electronic Percussion – triggers, pads, and hybrid setups

• Steel Drums (Steel Pan) – melodic and harmonic fundamentals

• Djembe & West African Percussion – traditional rhythms and ensemble playing

• Cajón – technique, grooves, and use in acoustic and contemporary settings

• Orchestral Percussion – triangle, tambourine, crash cymbals, wind chimes, and other auxiliary instruments

• World Percussion – tabla, taiko, doumbek, frame drums, and more

• Bucket / Found Sound Percussion – creativity and rhythm using non-traditional instruments

ABRSM Pathway

Our curriculum systematically prepares students for ABRSM assessments in percussion and drum kit, giving clear milestones and internationally recognized progression.

Students may pursue ABRSM Drum Kit Performance Grades (Initial Grade through Grade 8). These digital exams focus on artistic performance and communication. Candidates present a continuous program of four pieces (three chosen from the official repertoire lists and one own-choice piece), assessed on interpretation, delivery, groove, and overall musical communication. The repertoire spans rock, pop, jazz, funk, reggae, Afrobeat, fusion, heavy metal, drum and bass, and more—aligning closely with the stylistic breadth of our studio curriculum.

ABRSM Percussion 

For students focusing on orchestral and concert percussion, we prepare for ABRSM Percussion exams in the following pathways:

• Snare Drum

• Timpani

• Tuned Percussion (xylophone, marimba, vibraphone)

• Combined Percussion

Fall Semester