DRUM LESSONS AT OCTOPUS
Drum lessons at Octopus Music School are taught using our proprietary OPUS curriculum (Octopus Poly-Instrumental Units of Study). OPUS consists of ten grade levels, each with a requisite assessment and certification. From the beginning, we emphasize reading, aural training, proper posture, rhythm skills, and playing along to a diverse repertoire of music. Students will learn all about rudiments, stick control, and hand-to-foot coordination. In addition to private study, all students at Octopus, will have the opportunity to participate in group ensemble classes, which allows students to collaborate and make music with their peers, an experience which is particularly important for those studying the drums.
With consistent practice at recommended intervals, our carefully designed curriculum prepares students to quickly advance from day one by equipping them with the necessary tools and scaffolding to build a comprehensive understanding of the drum set.
Lessons are still tailored to individuals' unique learning needs, and repertoire remains flexible so that students are able to learn music which interests them, however the core content and benchmarks have been standardized to ensure fast and steady progress for students of all ages and skill levels.
What students learn in lessons is important but equally important is how they apply that knowledge. At Octopus, students collaborate with their peers in bands and ensembles, play for friends at family at our many performance opportunities, and have access to masterclasses conducted by our staff and special guests.
FIND YOUR DRUM TEACHER
MICHAEL W,
DIRECTOR OF DRUM STUDIES
At Octopus Music School, each of our instrument families has a department director who oversees the curriculum, conducts staff trainings, and plans instrument-specific masterclasses and performance events for students. Our Department Directors track all students' progress monthly teaching staff check-ins and are a resource for teachers and students alike.
"Rhythm is inside all of us, which is why studying the drums is a great way to begin your musical journey. Drum lessons at OMS focus on getting students making music as quickly as possible while developing necessary technical skills. All drum students, regardless of age will learn how to develop rhythm, reading, listening and musical skills. Students can expect to practice songs of multiple genres such as rock, pop, jazz, soul, R&B and many more! Drummers at OMS work towards a goal of playing alongside our teacher band at semi-annual showcases as well as playing alongside their peers in student bands. We can't wait to help you begin your musical adventure at OMS!"
-Michael W, Director of Drum Studies
Michael has studied under numerous gifted drum instructors with varied fields of expertise; at Rutgers University with the legendary drummer Victor Lewis and classical composer Joe Tompkins, at the New School Veneto Jazz Workshop with Jeff Hirschfield, and at Julliard with classical percussionist Greg Giannascoli. Upon completing his performance studies, he also completed his Masters in education at Montclair State University. Studying both classical percussion and jazz drum set has given Michael a unique outlook on teaching the drums where students are encouraged to explore their creativity while mastering technical fundamentals. As a performer, Michael has toured with various jazz and rock bands across Japan, Poland and America.
FIND YOUR DRUM TEACHER
In addition to weekly private lessons, students at Octopus may enroll in one of our amazing band or ensemble programs where participants learn a repertoire of songs and prepare for performances in and out of our schools!
Drummers are at the heart of a group, providing the driving rhythm and backbone for the other musicians. Being in such a position places increased emphasis on keeping time, listening to important musical queues, and perfecting the non-verbal communication that all musicians need to excel in collaborative settings.
In addition to our rock and pop groups, we offer drum students the unique opportunity to participate in percussion-only ensembles. These groups help participants prepare for school bands and allow students to envision percussion as a lead instrument as well as it's more traditional role in the rhythm section.
COLLABORATIVE
OPPORTUNITIES
FIND YOUR DRUM TEACHER
PERFORMANCES
& EVENTS
At Octopus, we believe that the cornerstone of a well-rounded music education must emphasize performance. To that end, OMS curates a multitude of opportunities for students to showcase their hard work throughout the year. From our bi-annual Showcase Series to festivals and community events to our bands' appearances at renown venues such as the Stone Pony and Asbury Lanes, Octopus provides string students with countless ways to show off their skills.
We also offer curated string masterclasses on a quarterly basis for all enrolled string students. Masterclasses are a group setting where one of our staff members or a special guest provides focused instruction to students and an audience. The format is different from a private lesson or formal concert; the goal is to create a learning opportunity for both the performers and observers, and for everyone to leave with new insights.
