Out of Hock Drum Studio

Specialties

With beginning students I focus on fundamental technique, reading skills, and drum set playing. I work on fundamentals from the start since a solid technique is essential to proper development, but with adult beginners I prefer to introduce those concepts on a need-​to-​know basis. I do request that all students learn to read music, but don’t panic — it’s a myth that reading music is difficult. You will learn most of what you’ll need in the first or second lesson.

With more experienced students I concentrate primarily on the drum set, but I also teach the basic techniques taught to me by Murray Spivack and Richard Wilson, which introduce concepts such as the wrist turn, rebound, upstroke, downstroke, fulcrum, guide, balancing point, and floor of the stroke.

For drum set playing I look at control, balance, relaxation, independence, time and groove, phrasing, soloing, reading skills, and related elements while exploring jazz, rock, funk, big band, and other contemporary styles.

History

Established in 1994.

Out of Hock Drum Studio is the place to go for drum lessons in the Pasadena area. I’ve been at the same location for 18 years and have over 30 years of experience working with students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re just beginning, perform in your high school band or orchestra, or play professionally around town, I can help you develop your skills to become both a better drummer and a more complete musician. Whatever your goals, I can put together a lesson plan to help you reach them!

Meet the Business Owner

David H.

Business Owner

David Hocker earned his BA in Music at California State University Long Beach, but his real education comes from having played with some of the best musicians in the world over the past 30 years and from the inspiration of his students both past and present.