Drums Private Lessons
Christopher
As an instructor at Allegro School of Music, Dr. Ozorio teaches beginning, intermediate, and advanced drum students. He originates from Rio Rico, Arizona, where he was raised in a diverse community that encouraged artistic pursuits and stressed the importance of hard work. His upbringing gave him the confidence and knowledge to pursue music and teaching, and his expertise can be seen in his lessons. He has a unique teaching style that combines structured learning with creative exploration, which allows his students to make meaningful learning progress.
Biography:
After beginning his musical studies at age ten, Christopher continued studying music throughout his middle and high school years under the guidance of Dr. Wes Brewer, one of his earliest percussion mentors. When he graduated high school in 2009, he attended the Fred Fox School of Music at the University of Arizona to pursue a Bachelor of Music degree in Percussion Performance. Christopher accomplished this goal in December of 2013 under Dr. Norm Weinberg's guidance and the percussion studio's graduate teaching assistants.
After graduation, Christopher felt a strong desire to serve his country, and he chose to do so by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. Following his initial training, He moved to Southern California to begin his tour with Marine Band San Diego. He was inspired by the sense of community and camaraderie he witnessed while serving and enjoyed using his talents to serve his country. He felt that the Marine Corps was the perfect place to put his skills to use and make a difference. During his enlistment, Christopher attended leadership seminars and schools, received various awards and accolades for his conduct and musicianship, and mentored the Marines he was assigned to. These activities allowed him to develop essential teaching skills such as communication, problem-solving, and team-building, while also gaining valuable experience in the military.
At the end of his Marine Corps service, Christopher decided to pursue a Master of Arts degree in Percussion Performance. He moved to Long Island, New York and began Master's studies with percussionist Frank Cassara. Christopher wanted to further his musical education and expand his musical repertoire. He felt that studying with Frank Cassara would give him the best opportunity to achieve his goals and gain the skills he needed to become a successful percussionist and educator.
Upon graduating from his Master's studies in 2020, Christopher sought meaningful, fulfilling employment in southern Arizona. In Spring of 2022, he accepted a faculty position at Allegro School of Music, a position that enabled him to collaborate with other talented artists and musicians and use his creativity to help bring their visions to life.
During his time at Allegro, Christopher earned his doctorate in Music Education at Liberty University. His research explored commonalities in dispositions among effective private music instructors at for-profit music schools like Allegro. His findings have provided valuable insights into the qualities that make private music instructors successful, ultimately leading to improved student outcomes and higher satisfaction rates.
The position that he currently holds as an instructor has codified his love for teaching and his desire to serve others. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, watching too much reality television, and spending quality time with his wife, Samantha.
Christopher is proudly endorsed by Vic Firth drumsticks and Zildjian cymbals, and is a member of the Black Swamp Percussion Educator Network.
Tuesday at Eastside
Wednesday at Eastside
Thursday at Eastside
Greg
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
Saturday at Eastside
Rob
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.
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!
Monday at Foothills
Tuesday at Foothills
Wednesday at Foothills
Thursday at Foothills
Friday at Foothills
Sunday at Eastside
Nick
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.
Sunday at Foothills
Ian
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.