You've made the decision to take drum lessons. TERRIFIC! What's next? Prepare, commit, and practice. You need the right instructor who can address your needs and work at your pace and your schedule. Let's learn more about your lessons.
I've been playing the drums since the age of 10 - that's 55 years of playing - and I love to teach and share my knowledge and experience. I am dedicated to my instrument and to the art of drumming. I strive for continuous improvement, so that I can pass it on to all my students.
Over the years, I've been influenced by many - and taught by the pros. One of my most memorable instructors was Charles (Charlie) Perry, author of many indispensable drum books including the Art of Modern Jazz Drumming, Rockin' Bass Drum Books 1 & 2, Drum Solos in Triplets, Introduction to the Drum Set, and 8 Men in Search of a Drummer.
As an instructor, I find it important that I continue to take lessons (just like my students), which I have been doing off-and-on throughout my 55 years of playing. I currently work with 2 professional drum instructors on a weekly basis. It keeps me on my toes and eager to share what I've learned.
My musical influences span most musical genres, including Jazz, Swing, Fusion, Rhythm & Blues, Rock n Roll, Prog Rock, Country, Gospel, Afro Cuban, Latin, and World Music.
But the drummers who have influenced me most are perhaps as eclectic as the musical influences that make up my musical DNA. They include Buddy Rich, Art Blakey, Edison Machado, Ginger Baker, Bernard Purdie, Billy Cobham, Dr. Steve Gadd, Russell Kunkle, Mike Craney, Lenny White, Ricky Dawson, Paul Wertico, Antonio Sanchez, Alex Acuna, Alphonse Mouzon, Peter Erskine, Tito Puente, Mitch Mitchell, and Dave Weckl.
I am professionally endorsed by HingeStix by Sam Ruttenberg, a drum stick manufacturer with an award-winning practice drum stick that provide drum students with the immediate feel of the loose grip, while building finger control, and mastering the bounce and rebound. The HingeStix is indispensable and one of tools you will use.
I am a member of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation's "Support Music Coalition", a network of non-profit organizations, schools, businesses, and individuals working hard to keep music education strong. I am also a member of the Sabian Education Network, an organization of international educators, and the D'Addario Education Collective.
Every student receives personalized drum lessons, designed to motivate, excite, challenge, and move the student at a steady and comfortable pace. No lesson is complete until the student has a full understanding of the concepts discussed and exercises assigned.
Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, advanced student, or an adult coming back to the drums after a long break, I will tailor your lessons to meet your goals and aspirations as a drummer. Maybe you want to learn rock beats to jam with your friends or you want to ultimately play professionally as a drummer, I can help show you the way. The rest is up to you.
Virtual drum lessons are done via Skype, Zoom, FaceTime, or Facebook Messenger. I also teach out of my drum studio in Northern Westchester County, New York. Masks and social distancing are practiced.
Contact me for a free evaluation and more information here.
To start a career as a drummer or as a hobby, contact me here.
"As Peter Ronick's former drum teacher, I can easily say that any drumming student would be well served taking lessons with Peter Ronick. He is a top working drummer, and has the skills necessary to take any drummer to the next level."
"Peter Ronick is among the few unique drummers whose musical abilities extend beyond the narrow paths travelled by so many others. His fluency in multiple styles and use of current technologies for performance and recording sets him apart from the rank and file club drummer. I highly endorse Peter Ronick as a musician and teacher."
"Peter Ronick is an excellent working drummer and professional drum teacher. He’s very knowledgeable, and he has taught me the drumming styles I needed to play in my own band. My playing level has increased as well."
Professionally endorsed by HingeStix by Sam Ruttenberg. Mastering bounce and rebound are the essential elements to proper stick control that lead to exceptional skills and chops.
Member of the D'Addario Education Collective, which advocates the need for music education in our schools and our communities.
Member of the Sabian Education Network, which provides drum instructors with a variety of educational and professional resources for their teaching practice.
Having the desire and willingness to learn creates the motivation that we all need to strive for improvement and advancement at every turn. Having the right attitude also gives you the confidence to muscle through challenges in life. Approach this challenge with an open mind, your head up, and your eyes open, and you'll succeed at anything.
It's important to establish a place in your home where you will practice everyday. If possible, chose a quite and private spot where you won't be distracted and where you won't bother anyone in your home. Set aside a corner in your bedroom, in your basement, or garage, and treat it with respect. It's your spot. Let everyone know that you've created a studio area where you'll be practicing and taking virtual lessons.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, you will need a durable practice pad, a music stand, a notebook or blank musical notation book, and pencil. A pair of hickory 5A or 5B drumsticks (weighted and balanced). There are many brands to chose from so select one that appeals to you. Vic Firth is a great "go-to" brand for all drumsticks. And don't forget to buy a pair of brushes and mallets. We'll need them for our lessons, and you'll need them when you rehearse with your band or performing.
Close to:
Lower Westchester
Rockland County
Putnam County
Fairfield County