Passing the rhythm forward.
Robert loves working with kids and young musicians — helping them find the pulse, build real skills, and fall in love with playing.
The music only continues if we teach it.
For all his years on the bandstand, Robert has never stopped teaching. He grew up learning the way great musicians do — beside players who cared enough to share what they knew. Now he does the same for the students coming up behind him.
His teaching is warm and practical. Students learn timing, feel, and the discipline of practice, but they also learn something harder to name: how to listen, how to play with others, and how to serve the song. Whether it is a first-time drummer or a young musician ready for the next step, Robert meets each student where they are.
He works with schools, youth programs, universities, and individual students across Chicago — always with the same goal: to make the music feel possible.
Ways to learn together
School & youth clinics
Hands-on group sessions for classrooms and music programs, built around rhythm, groove, and playing as a team.
- Single visits or multi-session residencies
- All ages and experience levels
- Fits band, choir, and general music classes
Private & small-group drum lessons
One-on-one or small-group instruction that builds solid technique, steady time, and real musical confidence.
- Beginner through advanced
- Reading, feel, and groove
- Personal goals set with each student
Musical direction masterclasses
A look inside the music director's chair — how to lead a band, shape a song, and support singers on stage.
- For older students and early-career pros
- Arranging and rehearsal basics
- Leading from the kit
Ensemble & band coaching
Coaching for student groups and youth bands, focused on locking in together and playing with one voice.
- Rhythm-section tightness
- Dynamics and listening
- Preparing for a performance
Artist-in-residence / assemblies
Larger sessions and school assemblies that share the story, the drums, and the joy of live music.
- Interactive demonstrations
- Q&A with students
- Great for full grade levels
Career talks for aspiring pros
Honest conversations about building a life in music — the craft, the work ethic, and the many roles a musician can fill.
- What a working musician's week looks like
- Preparing, showing up, and growing
- Paths in theater and live performance
Built for every kind of room
Schools
Elementary through high school music programs looking to bring a working artist into the classroom.
Universities
College music departments and student ensembles seeking masterclasses and professional insight.
Youth programs
After-school and summer programs that want kids to experience live music up close.
Community organizations
Arts groups and neighborhood organizations building music into their programming.
Individual students
Young players and families looking for private lessons and steady, encouraging guidance.
Early-career musicians
Aspiring pros who want to learn how the working world of music really fits together.
Every student is met where they are.
No two learners are the same, so no two sessions are either. Programs are tailored to the age, size, and skill level of the group — from a child holding sticks for the first time to a student ready to lead a band. The goal is always the same: to build confidence, patience, and a real love of playing, at a pace that feels right for the room.
Bring Robert to your school.
Tell us about your students, your program, and what you hope they'll take away. Robert will help shape a session that fits.
Teaching engagements are subject to availability and scheduling. Dates, formats, and details are confirmed on a case-by-case basis.