Drum and Percussion students will study under Javier Santiago. Mr. Santiago hails from his native Puerto Rico with a Masters of Music in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Miami. Students will study a diverse array of styles: pop, country, jazz, as well as orchestral and hand percussion.

For the details of all the required courses as well as additional elective courses read the descriptions below.

Required Study:

All drum and percussion students will participate in the following.

Private/Small Group Lessons:

Students will participate in 2 lessons throughout their two weeks at FASA. Each lesson will be an hour in length and will include 1- 3 students, depending on age and skill. Parents are encouraged to attend and record or video tape lessons for future review. Additional private lessons may be purchased at $50 per hour. For a list of teachers and pricing information click here.

Technique Class:

Week one: Students will participate in a daily, one hour technique class, designed to suit their individual skill level. The course will emphasize rhythmic reading, stick technique, drum set, hand percussion, and improvisation.

Week two: Students will implement their new technical expertise as the tracks assemble to prepare for the final performance.

Rhythm Section:

Week one:

For piano, guitar, drums, and bass, this daily course is designed to give rhythm section players experience playing in a modern configuration. Pop, country, blues, jazz and rock styles all utilize this core group of players. Rhythm section classes will give students coaching in ‘comping’ in multiple styles. Students will be placed in groups based upon their skill and previous experience.

Week two: Students of all tracks will assemble to prepare for the final performance.

Applied Theory and Piano Basics:

Week one: Percussionists will participate in a daily 2 hour course that combines both theory and basic piano. The goal is to develop not only the rhythmic skill of students but also their melodic and harmonic understanding to improve overall musicality. This course will teach music theory and piano as a means of general music knowledge.

Week two: Students of all tracks will assemble to prepare for the final performance.

Big Band and Orchestra:

Percussionists will participate in both big band and orchestra throughout the two weeks of FASA. These groups are directed by Bill Wolaver and will feature various styles, as all tracks converge to prepare for the final show.

Elective Courses of Study:

The following classes are available for an additional fee.

Songwriting:

Are you interested in writing your own music and lyrics? Here’s your chance to get started. Songwriting classes will guide students who are just beginning, while developing experienced writers who are already hooked, blending the study of both lyric writing and musical composition. This elective will be offered daily for one hour during week one only. $75 additional fee.

Composition and Arranging:

Taught by Bill Wolaver, master arranger and composer, the composition and arranging class is designed for students interested in composing and arranging. It will focus on techniques for melodic and harmonic development, as well as orchstration.This elective will be offered daily for one hour during week one only. $75 additional fee.