Drum Studio in The Hague
Welcome to my profile!My name is Jean-Clair, and I am a professional drummer and teacher based in Den Haag. My private drum studio is located on the border of The Hague and Rijswijk, close to HS and Central Station, with easy parking in front of the studio.
Who are my lessons for?
I offer drum lessons for motivated beginners, developing drummers and musicians who want to deepen their rhythmic skills.
Many students arrive at different stages
- complete beginners starting their first steps on the drums
- people returning to drumming after a break
- musicians who want to expand their rhythmic understanding
- drummers who want to improve technique, groove or musicality
All lessons are adapted to the individual student and their musical goals.
My teaching approach
My goal as a teacher is not only to show you what to play, but to help you understand how to practice and develop independently.
In lessons we work on:
- groove and timing
- technique and coordination
- musical listening
- reading and rhythm understanding
- stylistic awareness
- creativity and improvisation
I strongly believe that students grow the most when they enjoy the process of learning. Together we explore music that inspires you while building a strong foundation.
Do you need to read music?
Opinions differ on this topic, but my answer is yes — it helps a lot. Understanding rhythm notation gives you a deeper insight into music and allows you to learn faster and more independently.
Is practicing important?
Absolutely — but practicing should also be motivating and effective. During lessons I help students develop smart practice strategies, so that the time you spend practicing leads to progress and musical confidence.
Musical styles
Students in my studio work on many styles, including: Jazz – Funk – Pop – Rock – Latin.
If you are interested in jazz, bebop, big band or groove-oriented music we will certainly have a great match. At the same time, students who enjoy rock or pop are equally welcome.
Listening to music
Listening is one of the most powerful ways to grow as a musician. We often talk about great drummers and recordings to develop musical awareness and inspiration.
Some influential drummers include:
Nate Smith, Steve Jordan, Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones, Jo Jones, Bernard Purdie, Mel Lewis, Jeff Porcaro, Dave Weckl and Steve Gadd — and many more. I'm always curious to hear who your drum heroes are.
Trial lesson
During the trial lesson you will immediately sit behind a professional acoustic drum set. We talk about your musical interests and goals, and you get a first impression of my teaching style. This helps us both see if we are a good match.
Lesson subscription
Lessons are offered through a subscription system that provides structure and continuity. nYou pay a fixed monthly fee based on your lesson frequency:
- 36 lessons per year (weekly)
- 18 lessons per year (bi-weekly)
School holidays and public holidays are excluded.
About me
Besides teaching I regularly perform in concerts and small ensembles, including my own project UmaX.
Over the years I have shared the stage with renowned musicians such as Roy Hargrove, Charles McPherson, Howard Alden, Bert Joris, Ferdinand Povel, Ack van Rooyen, Denise Jannah and the Millenium Jazz Orchestra, as well as Dutch artists including Do, Babette van Veen and Peter Douglas. My musical heart lies in jazz and improvised music, and I enjoy sharing that passion with my students.
Jean-Clair is proud endorser of Canopus Drums.