BIO
Kelly Smith
STYLE
ALL STYLES OF ROCK, FUNK, POP, R&B, HIP HOP, FUSION and AFRO-CUBAN RHYTHMS.
Kelly has studied drums for 45 years focusing on different methods and styles of drumming. He currently plays with Multi-Platinum recording artist Frank Hannon (Tesla) and has performed and recorded with several other artists.
Kelly offers a unique perspective on drumming as he also has established himself as a songwriter, producer and engineer. He feels this additional skill set helps him teach his students the role of a drummer and how to express themselves musically.
METHOD
Kelly builds a program for each student based on their skill level and goals.
For beginners, he works with students on the fundamentals of Grip, Stroke, Rudiments, Reading, beats, fills and song structure.
For intermediate and advance students, Kelly likes to work on methods and concepts like, Metric modulation, permutations, displacement, odd grouping, polyrhythms, independence, odd timing, phrasing and flow.
Kelly’s teaching style focuses on Technique, ergonomics, relaxation and creativity while making each lesson fun and challenging. He understands each student is on their own musical journey and strives to make learning drums an enjoyable experience that will span a lifetime.