Teaching

Artist In Residence

“As an active artist-in-residence, I’ve had the opportunity to create relevant musical experiences for thousands of school children. To me, there’s no greater thrill than seeing young hands take up instruments for the first time…young faces light up with the thrill of music-making…and young hearts set alive with inspiration and motivation.”

Todd’s in-school residency programs have earned him a reputation as one of the most caring and competent teachers at work today. Programs can be geared to groups large or small, for both the artistically oriented and the newcomer alike. As an artist-in-residence, Todd works with faculty in the arts and other fields to connect music with geography, history and musical instrument construction. The result is an astonishingly complete musical-cultural-academic experience, a learning opportunity unlike any other offered in the school environment.

“Musical expression is a gift I’m privileged to share with the world. Through my clinics, workshops, artist residencies and the Hand Drum Exploratorium, I’ve seen thousands of students become engaged and enthralled by the sheer joy of making music. In the process, I’ve been witness to countless moments of inspiration and personal growth. And for me…that’s really what it’s all about.”

“Todd is exceptional, playing drums and working with students. We all loved him. He knows how to manage even the ‘hard to handle’ ones…He works very well with children.”
-Public school teacher, Tucson, AZ

“You have a most special touch.”
– Joan Ashcraft, Director of Arts Education, Tucson Unified School District

Private Lessons

As a highly trained musician and a skilled percussion pedagogue, Todd offers private lessons for serious students who will benefit from the one-on-one teaching and learning experience. Material can cover everything from orchestral technique, to hand drumming, to composition and improvisation. Many of Todd’s private students have gone on to enjoy rewarding musical careers.