Percussion Instructors at the Community Music School
Learn more about private music lessons here! Please note the instructor's level (Apprentice, Master, or Professional) to determine the rates for the lessons.
Apprentice
Allison Burns, percussion
Allison Burns is a sophomore studying Instrumental Music Education (K-12) in the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University, where she has worked with Dr. Brady Spitz and Dr. Diana Loomer as her percussion professors. During her time at Appalachian State University, Allison has taken part in the Appalachian Wind Ensemble, the Appalachian Symphony Band, the Steely Pan Steel Band, and the Appalachian Percussion Ensemble. She is a leader in the Appalachian State Marching Mountaineers, serving as the Front Ensemble Section Leader. She is an active member of the Epsilon Theta chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota, exploring many service opportunities in the musical space. Recently, Allison has been learning about education with the Wake County Future Teachers program, while helping the Heritage Middle and High School bands in Wake Forest, NC.
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that one of the most important parts of learning is excitement. I hope each and every one of my students leaves their lesson feeling excited and eager to discover even more. Together, I believe that we can build a learning community for exploration through goal setting, outside-of-the-box thinking, and a student-first approach to learning. As someone who once struggled with musical concepts, I believe that embracing and overcoming challenges as growth opportunities is an essential part of progress. As a teacher, I strive to make the learning environment as warm and welcoming as possible. Having a teacher who listens, understands, and adapts to the needs of the student is something important to me, so I truly aim for this in our lessons.
Bruce Boney, percussion
Bruce Boney is a fourth year percussionist and drumset player currently pursuing a degree in music education with a performance certificate at Appalachian State University. Bruce Boney has studied with teachers Dr. Brady Spitz and Dr. Alfred Sergel. Bruce has performed in a wide variety of ensembles including the Appalachian Wind Ensemble, Crimson Jazz Band, Appalachian Symphony Orchestra, Appalachian Percussion Ensemble, Blue Ridge Percussion, Marching Mountaineers, and a WGI participant with Paradigm Percussion. He has held leadership roles at Appalachian State such as Principal Percussionist, Front Ensemble Captain, and Battery Captain.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is centered around positivity and creating a supportive and structured learning environment where the needs and goals of the student come first. I believe that music can inspire us to grow as people and support creativity, motivation and an appreciation for art. I am passionate about building strong fundamentals to form the foundation for long-term success and strive to teach those in a clear and engaging way. I also emphasize the importance of practice habits and the enjoyment of a learning process that will help the student in any environment - musical or not.