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I am a freelance session drummer and drum teacher, and have recently moved to Tucson from London in the UK. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Music Performance, and over 12 years of experience teaching drums to both adults and children. I played professionally for many years in London in a number of cover bands; I led a function band called The Thamesmen, played as a core member of XO Party Band, and regularly played with The London Essentials. All of the bands I played with performed in and around London, and internationally throughout Europe.

I believe when teaching drums it is important to establish a solid foundation in technique and theory to enable students to reach their goals, however I believe lessons should be fun, so I always endeavour to make sure practice at home never becomes a chore. I also believe it is very important for students to play their instrument with other musicians, so I always make it my goal to facilitate and encourage all my students to form bands and learn to play covers and their own compositions together, as this can significantly enhance their progress.

1.     I’m half British and half American
2.     I'm a Seahawks fan
3.     I love working out at the gym
4.     My favourite band is the Foo Fighters
5.     I once swam with Manta Rays in Bali
6.     My favourite color is green
7.     I once did a 100km overnight charity hike that took 29 hours!
8.     My favourite gig I've ever played was in a Limp Bizkit cover band
9.     I once watched all three Lord of the Rings extended editions in a row
10.   I love playing at local jam nights and meeting other musicians

From Allegro student to Allegro instructor! Robert Parisi II began taking lessons at Allegro, and within a year was presented with the opportunity to become an instructor. 

Robert began playing the drums at the age of 13, and after moving to Rio Rico, Arizona joined the school band. Throughout High School he continued studying music, joined the marching band, and performed in many garage bands. 
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Robert earned his bachelor’s degree in history from The University of Arizona, while performing in local heavy rock and roll, reggae, and progressive bands. He is currently in a reggae band that tours, records music in the studio, and films music videos. 

Having spent a great deal of time performing and creating with other musicians, Rob has learned valuable skills that students can use such as leadership, clear communication, and patience. Through taking lessons at Allegro to sharpen and hone his skills, Rob found a new love: teaching! With a structured style of teaching and focus on the student’s specific goals, he is determined to help students become the best drummers they can be while having fun!

Fun Facts:

- Rob likes to play video games in his free time.
- Likes a variety of different music and playing styles.
 -Owns a 1968 VW type 2 bus.
- Likes playing Dungeons and Dragons and Magic the Gathering
- Has 3 pets, a pit bull, a bearded dragon, and a turtle. 
- Is also a mechanic. 
- Likes to exercise.
- Likes to spend time with friends and family.
- Enjoys watching movies, particularly scary ones.
- Likes fishing, camping, and being outdoors!

Professional Credentials and Performance Experience
Nick holds a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from Sonoma State University, where he studied under the acclaimed jazz drummer George Marsh. With Marsh's guidance, Nick developed a deep understanding of technique, coordination, and creative expression that has shaped his approach to drumming. A passionate musician, Nick has dedicated himself to performing and refining his skills across various styles. For the past four years, he has been sharing his love for percussion by offering both in-person and online lessons, equipping aspiring drummers with the tools they need to succeed.

Teaching Approach
Nick’s teaching approach emphasizes a balance between honoring the foundational techniques of great drummers and tailoring lessons to the unique needs of each student. He believes that learning the drums goes beyond technique, focusing on developing a strong mind-body connection. Nick’s goal is to help students become more aware of the physical movements involved in drumming, allowing for greater ease, relaxation, and expressive freedom. Whether students are looking to improve coordination, develop dynamic control, or unlock their creative potential on the kit, Nick is committed to supporting them every step of the way.

Five Fun Facts About Nick:
​​​​​​​1. Nick is a dedicated vegetarian and enjoys experimenting with new plant-based recipes.
2. In November 2023, he relocated from the Bay Area to Tucson, Arizona, embracing the desert’s unique landscape.
3. Alongside his passion for drumming, Nick is studying to become a data scientist, merging creativity with analytical thinking.
4. He’s passionate about fitness and health, incorporating regular exercise into his routine to stay energized and focused.
5. When he' not drumming, Nick enjoys gardening and spending time outdoors, drawing inspiration from nature for both his music and personal growth.

Samuel is a passionate and experienced music instructor dedicated to helping students unlock their music potential. Samuel found a love for music that was greater than himself in a gigantic double bass, eventually paving the way to exploring other instruments, like guitar and ukulele. With over 15 years in the Tucson music scene, Samuel has performed in several bands and has managed several concert series, including KAMP Radio Concert Series and Cellar Concert Series at the University of Arizona. Now, his focus is nurturing the talents of other aspiring musicians. 

His teaching approach revolves around creating a supportive and inspiring environment for his students. Whether you’re a beginner looking to pick up your first instrument or looking to fine tune your songwriting, Samuel looks for a tailored way to guide you on your musical journey. In your lessons with Samuel, you can expect to feel empowered to read sheet music, improvise, and even compose your own pieces of music. Developing skill and technique is a major part of his lessons, but overall, Samuel wants each lesson to be fun, engaging, and enjoyable. 

Music is transformative and a lifelong skill that provides empowerment, joy, and inspiration and Samuel looks forward to sharing that passion with you!

Fun Facts About Me

1.) I’m a dog dad to a senior dog named Charlie, also known as Char Char
2.) I worked at Blow Up Records in London and was the Promotional Assistant for the Latitude Festival. (Even got to see Ed Sheeran before their rise to fame!) 
3.) I love whipping up new recipes in the kitchen and getting creative with my ingredients
4.) On my off time, I like to play video games with my girlfriend
5.) I often daydream about cool designs to put on t-shirts

Shua teaches:

Drums ONLY on Tuesdays (Eastside Location)
Guitar ONLY on Wednesdays & Thursdays (Eastside Location)
Guitar ONLY on Mondays (Foothills Location)

Josh Mikesell was born and raised in Northern Utah and developed an interest in music at a very young age. Josh was able to develop his skills at an arts high school, earning the the William D. Bichmore Music Ambassador Scholarship. Since graduating, he has spent his time professionally performing, teaching, writing, recording, and owning/operating a venue. 

Josh has been drumming for over 15 years, starting out in the punk scene before expanding into a wide range of genres including rock, R&B, hip hop, indie, and more laid-back, groove-based styles. His foundation in high-energy music taught him the importance of feel, timing, and dynamis-skills he continued to refine and bring into every project he is a part of.

At 18, Josh toured with his first band, the Rompstompers, and since then he's played with numerous bands and artists, both live and in the studio. He currently tours with indie artist Nicholas James and work as a freelance session drummer for several artists across the West Coast. His diverse experience allows him to connect with students of all levels and styles, helping them find their own voice behind the kit while building strong fundamentals.

In teaching, Josh loves a slow and steady approach emphasizing control and technique as well as artistic expression, starting with focusing on a pattern-based practice strategy. He enjoys exploring many styles, genres, and techniques to tailor the lessons to each individual student. 

10 Fun Facts
1. Initials spell “jam” and he loves to jam! 
2. Driven full circle around the country, twice! 
3. Got invited to audition for “The Voice” once. 
4. Loves to read comic books and manga. 
5. Loves video games. 
6. Was part of Troop #1 in Boy Scouts. 
7. Fed an elephant a cupcake once. 
8. Loves to cook.
9. Loves to camp and backpack. 
​​​​​​​10. Loves his girlfriend more than anything! 

Shua teaches:

Drums ONLY on Tuesdays (Eastside Location)
Guitar ONLY on Wednesdays & Thursdays (Eastside Location)
Guitar ONLY on Mondays (Foothills Location)

Ian Mast is an experienced music producer, percussionist, and educator from Tucson, AZ. He has created several albums worth of electronic solo work using his own name as well as two additional artist names: Cat Dad, and Catdadbops. Continually inspired by emerging technologies in music, Mast has worked with putting together the likes of international telematic music festivals, rock concerts, and open mic nights. Outside of the freelancer lifestyle, Mast works advocating for Music Technology Education. After starting his own middle school production and recording program, he hopes to bring similar classes to schools around Arizona. Ian Mast holds a Masters of Science Degree in Music Technology from Indiana University, and a Bachelors of Music Degree in Percussion from the University of Arizona.