[Bungleau]

A teacher can do a few things, all of which are important.

First, the basics. These are the standard things that you can often pick up from exercise books. A teacher can help with things as simple as how to read music (ever see drum music? It's different, for sure...).

Second, shortcuts. My second drum instructor showed me the way I still count today -- from one-and-two-and to one-dah-dee-two-dah-dee to one-ee-and-ah-two-ee-and-ah. Did eventually see it written down, but differently.

Third, options. That same drum instructor took one exercise book and gave me something like eight different ways to play each exercise. Regular rhythms, syncopated, off-beat... it's all fun when you try it out, and sometimes it works for real [img]smile.gif[/img]

Fourth, alternatives. That same teacher got me hooked on jazz. He snuck it in one day, saying "I know you want to play rock. Try this stuff for a bit -- it's related". Opened my eyes immensely. And I'm still opening 'em.

And last, open the world of music. Two people can play the same notes and beats, but whichever one can put his or her heart and soul into it, can put their emotion into it, that person will have the greatest impact.

There are those who can take themselves through all five steps. They are few and far between, and they are truly gifted. But even those people, as they continue on, will work with teachers -- perhaps not as formally -- to broaden their horizons and learn new things.

Just remember as you search for a teacher that you have to learn the basics first. Not all teachers are good at all five levels. It's fine to switch from one to another when the time is right.

Now go out there and have a good time!