Teaching Background
Dave Previ's journey in drumming commenced in 1987, spanning a diverse array of musical pursuits including high school and college marching bands, concert and jazz ensembles, garage bands, and dedicated drum lessons, each contributing to his robust musical foundation. Notably, Dave was a member of the West Virginia University marching band for all four years of his college tenure.
From 2000 to 2005, Dave honed his teaching skills as an instructor of private drum lessons at The Contemporary Music Center in Chantilly, VA, maintaining a bustling roster of 50 drum students weekly. In addition, he shared his expertise as a drum line instructor for various high school marching band programs across northern Virginia, and lent his rhythmic talents to the dance company at George Mason University.
Upon his relocation to NYC in 2005, Dave pursued further musical education, studying under the mentorship of esteemed instructors at The Drummers Collective, including Kim Plainfield and Peter Retzlaff. Since then, Dave has been an esteemed faculty member at The Collective, where he imparts his knowledge of rudiments, technique, and funk to aspiring drummers. His active involvement in all aspects of the school's curriculum has seen him serve as a pivotal member of rhythm sections for vocal, guitar, and bass classes, as well as various recitals.
The Lesson Experience
Dave's lessons are designed to be immensely beneficial for students at any level. Prepared students are met with challenges that encourage growth, while those encountering difficulties receive personalized assistance. Dave employs various teaching methods, including demonstrating playing examples during lessons, providing recorded examples for at-home review, and employing any necessary means to ensure students grasp both what they aim to play and what they need to do to achieve it.
Furthermore, Dave integrates musical and drumming history into his lessons, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the contributions of past players, bands, and songwriters. With an emphasis on active participation, lessons are rich with playing opportunities. Whether it's practicing rudiments on the pad, exploring snare drum solos, working through reading materials, jamming to drumless tracks, or playing along with records, Dave encourages students to elevate their playing and sound, tailoring instruction to their individual readiness.
In the studio, students have the privilege of learning on a vintage Gretsch drum kit, adding to the authentic and inspiring learning environment.
