In addition to his time studying with jazz drumming legend Ray Bauduc, he has taken master classes with Ed Soph, Louie Bellson, Jack DeJohnette, Donny Osborne, Johnny Rabb, Clayton Cameron, Butch Miles, Steve Smith, Joe Morello, Jeff Hamilton, Bill Stewart, Steve Gadd, Billy Cobham, Jeff "Tain" Watts, Peter Erskine, and Ed Shaughnessy. His lessons are guaranteed to accompany a healthy dose of wisdom as passed on to him by these giants of the drumming world. (Note, minimum age is 18).
Private lessons, clinics, and master classes are available by appointment only. Charlie teaches well-established and contemporary drumming techniques. His many years as an educator allows him to communicate and teach students effectively on a variety of subjects, while his professional experiences as a first call studio and touring musician provides insight to the music business. An abbreviated list of subjects covered:
Technique
Rudiments
Stylistic Interpretation
Style, Groove, and Feel
Genres and History
Kicks, Fills, and Set-Ups
Improvisation
Building/Resolving Tension
Stage Presence
Independence (Interdependence)
Soloing
Finger Control
Wrist Control
Bass Drum Control
Expanding Your Vocabulary
Personal, Artistic, and Professional Goals
Business and Career Options
Charlie accepts a limited number of select motivated, serious intermediate and advanced private students in the Chicago area. Use the form at the bottom of this page to obtain more information.
Testimonials
"It was an awesome lesson. We actually went about an hour and 20 minutes. Very informative. I got it from all that I had hoped for - tips for improving my technique, hands and feet. I highly recommend anyone passing through Chicago, or anyone who lives there to check Charlie out for a great lesson." - Will Jaeger
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"I met Charlie while he was teaching drums at a studio I frequent. A nicer person you will never meet. We began talking about my goals in drumming. I have studied with many top drum teachers and I rate Charlie as being among the best. Every bit of advice he has given me has helped beyond belief. Our lessons are more like career advice and mentoring than music drum lessons. A different kind of drum teacher indeed." - Clay P. Grossman
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"I'm honored to know Charlie not only as a friend, but as a world class, first rate Jazz drummer, Professional & Educator." - Marty Fullard, Professional Drum Teachers Guild
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"Charlie is a true professional. He's very dedicated to his craft in both the performance aspect as well as the teaching aspect. I'm proud to call Charlie a colleague and a friend. His ability to overcome adversity is a source of inspiration. I highly recommend Charlie for both his teaching skills as well as his performance skills." - Rob Ferrell, Professional Drum Teachers Guild
