I consider teaching an art and a privilage:

Classical Studies:

Teaching both the classical and the Afro-Cuban traditions, two forms with obvious differences:

  • Murray Spivack’s three finger technique. This approach requires a drum pad, metranome and two text books (Louis Belson’s Odd Time and George Lawrence Stone’s Stick Control). Murray was 93 years old when he taught me at his home in Los Angeles from 1991-1993.

  • This classical approach to the modern snare drum allows the student to transfer the technique to any instrument. I have successfully taught guitar, bass, and piano using these classical fundamentals.

Afro-Cuban Studies:

  • Orlando “Puntilla” Rios’ bata technique. These studies reuire a cinder block, metranome and one text book (Orisha/Rumba Song Anthology)

  • This deep dive into the Afro-Cuban folklore will give you an incredible understsnding of the different layers of meter necessary to play your instrument at an extremely high level. Breaking down rhythm as it relates to nature’s elements around us. These rhythms, songs and dances will also enhance your other instruments, the way you talk, listen and even carry yourself

  • 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.

The Power of Music:

·     Therapeutic benefits: reducing stress, anxiety and depression; boosting morale

·     Cognitive benefits: strengthening concentration and memory; building discipline

·     Social-emotional benefits: encouraging unity, team-building, communication, reciprocity and collaboration

·     Physical-motor skills benefits: improving coordination and balance

Richard is a master drummer, percussionist, composer, music teacher and drum therapy coach. Raised in Venice Beach, California, Marquez first picked up a drum at the age of two. He went on to study extensively with respected masters of both the Afro-Cuban tradition and American classical technique. Working professionally as a drummer and percussionist since the age of 15, he has amassed an array of experiences from a diverse pool of renowned artists, including WAR, Paquito De Rivera, the Eric Burdon (The Animals) and Brian Auger (Oblivion Express) Band, Placido Domingo, Sheila E. and Arturo Sandoval.