Aurel Violas
Treehouse NDSM - studio 55N7
Hello! My name is Aurel and I am a French Amsterdam-based drummer and educator.
Although currently specialized in Jazz and improvised music, I have studied various esthetics, and Pop and Rock music, in particular, are part of my background (I played in several pop-rock bands). Therefore I am able to teach a broad panel of music styles. I also have many drum methods and charts at my disposal, and have experience in teaching children from the age of 5, as well as teenagers and adults. My pedagogical approach is characterized by adaptability and open-mindedness, helping students to define and pursue their own goals, while providing thorough monitoring.
I always adapt to the students' tastes and learning profile. This is why, during the first lesson, and on a regular basis afterwards, I always take time to discuss with them (or their parents if they are very young) to figure out together the path they want or need to follow. I will use charts and methods for those who need visual support to assimilate the skills or teach by ear and by demonstrating to the ones who feel more comfortable this way. I also play electric guitar and can jam with my students, which is a great tool for developing band playing skills or simply to have a good time.
About my training and my activity as a musician:
I graduated from the Conservatory of Amsterdam (Jazz drums Bachelor's and Master's degrees), where I received formal pedagogical training, and studied with musicians such as Martijn Vink, Joran Vroom, Joris Roelofs and Reinier Baas. I am now active both on the Dutch and the French scene. My trio mainly tours in France and has played at venues such as the Sunside (Paris), or participated in competitions like the Keep An Eye International Jazz Award. I am also the co-leader of jazz sextet Chai Masters, finalist of several European competitions (Keep An Eye The Records, Leiden Jazz Award, Golden Jazz Trophy in Lille, France, 7 Virtual Jazz Contest). Chai Masters' first album Magic Realism got critical acclaim in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. The band performed at Dutch venues such as the Bimhuis or De Roode Bioscoop in Amsterdam, but also toured in Belgium and France.
Free trial drum lessons
Come and get a free drum lesson! We will get to know each other, and by the end of the session you will have all the information you need to decide whether you want to take regular lessons with me. Beginners will learn some of the basics they can instantly apply in musical contexts, and I will provide guidance and advice to more advanced students.
Walk-in possible anytime from 13:30 to 22:00