Private Drum and Percussion Lessons
Seattle – Tacoma 
One-on-one instruction is the best method for special learning interests or needs, for an intense or focused course of study, or even to overcome personal issues such as shyness or discomfort in large groups. If you fall into one of these categories or simply would like to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, then private instruction is the way to go. Lessons are offered on a wide variety of hand drums and percussion including congas, timbales, bata, drum kit, bongo, cajon, and smaller percussion instructions such as shekere and guiro.
Private lessons are generally 1/2 or 1 hour long and include foundation concepts and exercises to improve your rhythm, coordination, sense of time, speed, and mechanical independence. Speed in drumming is a function of good technique and training. No matter what your course of study, the first step in your development as a drummer is to establish proper technique. Independence is your ability to carry out multiple rhythmic tasks at the same time using hands, feet, and voice. Email me to get started today.
I have been playing percussion for fifteen years and often perform at large concerts and events. When I first approached Arturo, I needed assistance for a specific concert that was fast approaching where I was required to perform on three bata drums. I had the opportunity to discuss my needs with Arturo prior to the lesson. It didn’t take long to get into the groove of the class. I found his teachings to be perfect for my style of learning. He is clear and concise in his teachings and can pick up any weaknesses and strengths at a drop of a hat.
Arturo is a devoted musician and teacher and I have recommended his classes and books to other percussionist.
Toby Bender - Victoria, Australia
I was a traditional West African djembe and dunun player for 12 years before I started taking Skype lessons with Arturo to learn how to play the congas. He taught me how to be a better percussionist overall by helping me to understand and play all the various subdivisions underlying the pulse which ultimately led to improving my timing and opened up lots of new ideas and possibilities for soloing. He also taught me how to refine my technique to bring out my best possible sound in the most efficient way which helped increase my speed as well. All the skills I have learned from Arturo have applied to all the percussion I play. I recommend Arturo to anyone wanting to take their percussion to the next level.
Michelle Lovrich - Corvalis, OR
When I met Arturo, we had a brief chat and I agreed to a Skype lesson.Arturo, you listened to me explain my needs and then you were able to very quickly assess my skill level and start my lessons at precisely the place I needed. This is very skillful of you as I’ve been studying percussion and drumming for over Twenty years. Kudo’s! You’re a real pro and I’m coming back for more! Thanks,
Robert in Paonia, CO. Robert "Peace" Wright - Paonia, CO
I have taken online lessons from Arturo for about 1 1/2 years. He is an excellent teacher as he manages to project a very supportive and encouraging attitude while insisting on high standards. He is quick to point out mistakes but even quicker to applaud progress. What a great combination! My drumming has definitely improved in the time that I have studied with him. Because I live in Oregon, this would be impossible if I were not able to take lessons via Skype.
Kate - North Bend, OR
This is very interesting. I’ve been a drummer for over 20 years now and I’ve never really thought about health/psychological benefits. It makes sense though. If I’m sore or tense those feelings go away after I’ve been playing for a few minutes. I feel positive and rewarded when I finally figure out a piece of music that I’ve been struggling with. Also, when I’ve played live shows people seem to react more when bass and drums are involved. Maybe low frequencies and steady rhythms elicit happiness and dancing.
You know as a drummer how good you feel after working out something. It’s like the runner’s high both physically and emotionally the endogenous opiates kick in and the sense of well being is highten. So, important in our over all happiness 🙂
Thanks Arturo for your knowledge and insight. Sam DeCampo
Contact Arturo
Interested in taking private, group, or Skype drum and percussion lessons from Arturo? Would you like his Rhythm Ambassadors group to bring cultural awareness through music to your school assembly or artist-in-residence program? How about live music or DJ services for a party, wedding, or other special event? Use the convenient form below to contact Arturo with your needs. Or, if you prefer, you can call Arturo at (206) 276-6401 or email him at any of the addresses below.
For Rhythm Ambassadors: arturo@rhythmambassadors.com
For live music and DJ services: arturo@playzmusic.com
For drum and percussion lessons: arturo@interact-learn.com