Teaches Drumming and Percussion 

Sheila E.

Groundbreaking drummer and percussionist Sheila E. welcomes you to her class and shares some of the defining moments from her upbringing that launched her career as a professional musician.

Meet Your Instructor

Sheila demonstrates how to find your rhythm by moving, clapping, and using household objects to make music. 

Finding Your Rhythm 

Sheila introduces you to the drum set and demonstrates three essential warm-ups, also known as rudiments: singles, doubles, and paradiddles.

Getting Started on the Drums

Sheila breaks down intermediate and advanced drumming techniques for different genres of music.

Learning Drum Beats

Learn about timekeeping, the relationship between drums and bass, and how to drive a song dynamically with a band.

Playing Drums in a Band 

Your drum solo can say a lot about you as a drummer. Sheila explains when to take a solo, how to improvise, and when to show restraint. 

Solos and Fills

Sheila talks about what it takes to be a great bandleader and shows you how important it is for a band to prepare, rehearse, and communicate. Watch as she directs her band and they jam together.

Growing as a Bandleader 

Sheila discusses the importance of conditioning your body as a drummer and how it can make you a better performer. You’ll also get a glimpse into Sheila’s preshow rituals.

Training and Conditioning

Sheila brings together the knowledge and skills covered so far by identifying key drum sections from one of her collaborations with Prince, “A Love Bizarre.”

"A Love Bizarre" Case Study

Sheila shares personal stories and lessons from her years collaborating with Prince.

Collaborating With Prince 

Whether you want to be a professional drummer or you just love playing music, Sheila has some words of wisdom for you. 

Advice for Musicians

Sheila’s musical journey started with the congas. Learn the fundamentals of playing this Latin percussion instrument, from basic setup and sounds to soloing and playing with a band.

Playing the Congas 

Sheila is one of the first musicians in popular music to front a band on the timbales. From stick grip techniques to playing on cowbells, Sheila shows you how to play timbales as a solo artist or with a band.

Playing the Timbales 

Sheila walks you through her custom kit and encourages you to get creative and have fun setting up a kit that fits your budget and style. 

Experimenting With Percussion 

Sheila, Pete, Peter Michael, and Juan Escovedo welcome you into their family and reflect on their musical legacy. 

Welcome to the Family

Sheila E. Teaches Drumming and Percussion 

Funk it up with syncopation

Learning to love the red light

Practicing with purpose

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