I’ve been playing drums and percussion professionally since I was 15 and teaching beginners and professionals, children and adults for over 20 years. I consider teaching an art and a privilege, especially when it comes to supporting new artists as they find their authentic voice.

What I believe makes my approach unique and compelling is that I teach a blend of classical and Afro-Cuban, two forms that complement each other. One is a written tradition, the other an oral one. Classical resides in the head and relies on reading music, whereas the African lies in the whole body (mind, gut, heart) and uses ear-training.

When it’s of interest to the student, I love to incorporate other instruments (bass, guitar, piano, vocals), including virtual ones. Not only is it essential for the songwriting and beat-making process, but it’s an excellent approach for those who are searching for the instrument that suits them best.

The healing benefits of music touch us all, but I’ve seen especially incredible breakthroughs with people who have learning challenges (ADHD, autism) and wind up blossoming as artists and communicators, a couple of my students even getting into top music schools.

I’d love to help you find your own voice. See how you can work with me to discover your own original sound. 

TESTIMONIALS

  • "I have known Richie Marquez for 20 plus years. I first became aware of his talents in the Mid 80’s. I saw his band Mango Bang and I was totally impress with his abilities and leadership qualities. I began to mentor Richie and his band. He showed interest in the Bata, for me this was the beginning of a lifelong endeavor. Richie studied with me continuously for more than a decade. He was finally initiated into the prestigious fraternity Ana for ceremonial Bata drummers. He went on to study with masters such as Francisco Aguabella, Jesus Orta and the list goes on. Richie not only mastered the art of playing but he also mastered the art of sharing and preserving this ancient knowledge. He has been a shining example for the new vanguard and as far as I am concerned he is beyond a teacher he is a great human being who has taken this knowledge and used it to help and improve the life of others. This is the greatest compliment I can offer. Thank you."

    — Bill Summers

  • "Richie’s been with our family for over 20 years. He’s great with kids, as well as adults. He taught my son drums and percussion, including how to read music and write songs/beats. He guided and managed my son’s band for his bar mitzvah and 6th grade graduation. My son is now 26 and a music producer. I highly recommend Richie for anybody who’s looking for a music teacher and mentor."

    — Valerie Kalmenson

MY COACHING METHOD

  • Classical

    It all starts by learning the basics of writing and reading music in time.

  • Afro-Cuban

    Next, you’ll concentrate on the whole body (mind, gut, heart) and using ear-training

  • Your style

    The last step? We learn how to blend what we’ve learned. Making your on style and finding your own voice on your instrument.

QUESTIONS? LET’S CHAT.

HAVE QUESTIONS OR JUST WANT TO CHAT?

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