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Experienced
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Patient
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Inspirational
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Encouraging
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Skilled
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Passionate
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Dedicated
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Creative
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Supportive
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Motivational
š„ Ready to unlock your full drumming potential? Whether you're a beginner or aiming for expert level, with 35 years of experience and a passion for teaching the drums, I'm here to help you become the drummer you've always wanted to be. Letās take your skills to the next levelāno matter your age or experience!
Over 35 years of drumming expierence, Drum Teacher
from beginner to expert levels
35 years of experience
private drum lessons
Proven Results
Through Expert
Drum Instruction
With years of experience and a passion for teaching, Iāve helped students of all ages and levels to build confidence, become fluent in music reading, build a strong foundation in music theory, build creativity, and provide strong technicality on the drums. Real students, real progressāsee see the results of my drum lessons, along with my drumming examples that demonstrate the advanced skills and musicality I pass on to my students.
TEACHER EXPRESSION
Drum Cover | āI Thank Godā by Maverick City Music
Playing live worship at Bayside Church. āI thank Godā is an example of upbeat modern gospel drumming. Listen on the bridge of the song for syncopated right hand bell allowing freedom with the right hand. Most of the song is played on the toms as many worship songs in order to drive the rhythm forward. With no room for error, this demonstrates the power of proper technique to achieve speed and power with ease.
STUDENT / TEACHER
Ishan Age 14 | 2 Years of Drum Lessons Built Skill, Technique, Confidence, and Rhythm
Ishan had never played drums before starting lessons with meāand now, through consistent drum lessons and practice heās reading music and playing proficiently. Ishan plays with proper dynamics, solid technique, clean open hi-hats, and excellent rhythm. He holds a steady tempo without rushing. His growth shows just how much kids can achieve with focus, encouragement, and the right instruction. If your child has ever wanted to play the drums, this is the kind of progress you can expect to see.
TEACHER EXPRESSION
Drum Cover | āRather Beā ā Clean Bandit
This drum cover demonstrates inverted para-diddles with total freedom on the kick, ghost notes with a back beat on counts 2 and 4, non-straight right hand on the ride and hi-hat, some āshow-offā licks with 16th not triplet fills, and a cymbal spin. There is no click and very little drums on this track. I am demonstrating my ability to hold the tempo solid on my own and not float around the track with rushing and dragging.
STUDENT / TEACHER
Jono Age 8 | From Newbie to Drummer in 2 Years
Over the past two years, Jono has grown tremendously in rhythm, creativity, and confidence. Here, he demonstrates trading two-bar fills with me, coming up with his own ideas on the fly while keeping perfect time. Iām so proud of his ability to listen, stay in tempo, and creatively express himself on the drums. With dedication and the right guidance, Jono has developed the kind of musical skills every parent hopes to see in their childāconfidence, focus, and a love for playing the drums.
TEACHER EXPRESSION
Jazz Samba | Drum Solo and Batucada
The Jazz Samba is one of the most technically advanced grooves in drumming, requiring complete independence between all four limbs. The right hand flows with a fast ride cymbal pattern, while the left hand weaves in syncopated rhythms against it. At the same time, the bass drum drives the samba pulse and the hi-hat locks in the time with upbeat eighth notes. What makes this groove so challenging is not only the coordination but also the balance of touch, dynamics, and endurance needed to make it feel smooth and musical. In my performance, I take this a step further by moving into a drum soloāusing the Jazz Samba as the foundation while layering creativity, polyrhythms, and dynamic phrasing. This combination of groove and improvisation demonstrates how advanced technique and musical expression come together, and itās exactly the kind of artistry I aim to pass on to my students.
MOTHER / DAUGHTER DUO
Alessia | Age 11 with 4 years of drum lessons
In our drum lessons, your child will experience the joy and excitement of playing just like Alessia in this dynamic, high-energy duet! With a focus on rhythm, coordination, and creativity, I create a fun, supportive environment where kids can build confidence, master technique, and express themselves through music. Whether they're a beginner or have some experience already, each lesson is tailored to meet your childs needs, ensuring they stay engaged, continuously excel, and remain excited to play the drums.
From beginner to expert levels!
let me help you reach your drumming goals!
Private Drum Lessons
Approach & Philosophy
With over 35 years of drumming experience, I share my wealth of knowledge, passion, and expertise through teaching. My commitment to teaching stems from a genuine desire to contribute to the drumming community, fostering limitless possibilities for my students. I teach out of a profound love for the art of drumming.
I am dedicated to sharing my experiences, musical history, education, and ideas with individuals on their own unique musical journey. I help my students reach their drumming goals by equipping them with the essential tools needed for success. I instill proper technique, enabling my students to effortlessly play at varying speeds and intensities. By teaching my students music theory and notation, I empower them to transcend auditory limitations. Limb independence is a key focus, providing the flexibility to meet diverse playing demands. The mastery of dynamics sets my students apart, elevating them from good drummers to exceptional.
History &
Education
Musical Roots
Growing up on Stage, Earning Recognition, Leading the Way!
My musical journey began in a family deeply rooted in music. At the age of 10, I embarked on an incredible adventure, touring Northern California with my family band and performing timeless classics from the 50s, 60s, and popular Top 40 hits. My talent earned me sponsorship from Coca Cola, and I became a familiar face on weekly cable television. Throughout my school years, I was honored with numerous scholarships for my outstanding achievements on the drums, which fueled my passion to continue pursuing music at the highest level.
Legendary Drum Masters
Growth Guided by the Greats and Studying With World Class Masters!
My foundation in drumming was built on proper technique and proficiency in reading drum music. Throughout the years, I have remained at the forefront of my craft, enriching my skills through studying under renowned drum legends and masters, including Benny Greb, David Garibaldi, Zoro (the Drummer), Chris Coleman, and Tony Dey. My continuous learning encompasses diverse aspects such as linear patterns, independence exercises, permutations, poly-rhythms, world grooves, and captivating showmanship chops.
Where Passion Meets Purpose
My Love for Teaching Becomes My Calling When I help My Students Find Their Way!
Playing the drums is my passion, however teaching the drums is my true calling. As a dedicated mom of three children, I bring a unique understanding of what it takes to inspire and to guide young learners. Raising my own children has given me invaluable experience in patience, empathy, and adapting my approach to meet each childās individual needs. I create a nurturing environment where kids feel supported, safe, encouraged, and excited to learn. There are no limits to the life-changing impact of drumming with my teaching. Each lesson is backed by years of teaching experience, ensuring your child gets top-notch drumming instruction.
Rates
Experience a one-time trial lesson for $40.00. Explore my state-of-the-art studio, gain insights into my teaching approach, and have the opportunity to inquire about any aspects of my learning process.
Regular lessons are scheduled weekly, lasting 30 minutes each and conducted in a personalized one-on-one setting. Parents are welcome to join the lesson in the studio room at any time. Payment for lessons occurs at the beginning of each month, covering four lessons at a cost of $160.
For more advanced students seeking flexibility, I acknowledge the need for extended intervals between lessons. Opt for a monthly or occasional lesson at $80 per session, each lasting one hour.
Testimonials
Stephanie - Mather Field
Parent
My boys have been drumming with Karen for quite a few years now. My youngest son likes how Karen uses a nice voice when she teaches him. My older son likes the order how Karen conducts the lesson: she reviews, then does free play, then teaches the next lesson. He also likes that she gives him fun grooves to play around with in addition to his lesson. Both boys like free play because Karen jams with them at the same time! I am thankful for Karen because my boys have a firm, yet playful teacher who encourages them to reach their potential. I definitely recommend Karen as an experienced, knowledgeable drum instructor to whoever wants to learn or elevate their drumming; she'll treat you like family.
Helen - Rancho Cordova
Parent
Karen has been a wonderful teacher for my son. He's been with Karen since he was in kindergarten and 5 years later, his love for drums has grown. Karen is highly skilled and her talents for teaching and playing the drums is phenomenal. I couldn't have been more grateful that she is my son's teacher.
Ronna - Cupertino
Oder student and a wonderful reminder that itās never too late to start learning drums and experience the joy of music.
"Karen is the role model for all female church drummers. She is a sparkling presence in our lives, both as a teacher and as a godly light on the path we need to take, to follow our calling in worship drumming, with joy and diligence! I am so inspired every time I interact with her brilliance. I am eternally grateful for her work within the female church drummer sisterhood and beyond." Ronna, Gospel Drummer & Christian Enneagram Relationship Coach Relationship Doctor Online
Let's talk about drum lessons!