Jeff Kozol began playing drums at the age of 9. He first started learning from his father, who had been playing jazz since the 1940's. Jeff began lessons with Ken Vogel (Philadelphia drummer and noted author) while in junior high and learned multiple styles of drum set. He then started taking lessons with Tom Aungst (Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps), while in college. Jeff is well known as one of the leading percussion instructors for hand cymbals. Jeff has won two High Percussion titles in DCA including a perfect score with the Harrison Bushwackers. He has had the honor of marching with one of the legendary DCI percussion sections, the Cadets of Bergen County.
Jeff's teaching experience includes the Crossmen, Harrison Bushwackers, West Chester University and numerous high school marching bands throughout the United States. Under the encouragement of Thom Hannum (Garfield Cadets, Star of Indiana, UMass Minuteman Marching Band, BLAST!) and Dr. John Villella (Director of the West Chester University Golden Rams Marching Band), Jeff created an instructional video to assist band directors, percussion instructors, and cymbal players in developing a complete hand cymbal program.
He teaches clinics and mentors percussion instructors in all areas of battery percussion. He specializes in hand cymbal technique. Jeff also offers clinics on improving rehearsal technique and getting the most out of students. Jeff now combines drum corps playing techniques into drum set playing. He incorporates relaxed styles to allow for more control and speed while playing musically. Jeff is always looking to improve his playing and instructing abilities.
Along with his instructors, his influences include: Thom Hannum, Jim Chapin, Dave Weckl, Steve Gadd, Joe Morello, Tiger Bill Meligari, Neil Peart and Thomas Lang to name a few.
Past and present instructors include:
- Ken Vogel (drum set and author)
- Tom Aungst (drum corps)
- Carl Boos (drum corps and cymbal mentor)
- Dom Famularo (drum set and world famous clinician)
Jeff has been teaching for over 20 years. From beginner to advanced levels.
Styles include:
- Rock
- Jazz
- Fusion
- Pop
- Swing
- Funk
- Reggae
- Heavy Metal
The percussion studio includes:
- Two drum sets
- Several sets of practice pads
- A practice pad drum set
- A full library of books and videos on drumming technique
Jeff is proudly using:
- Taye Drums
- American Drum Sticks
- Sabian Cymbals
- Hansenfütz Practice Pedals
Jeff is available for lessons and/or clinics nationwide. Please send an e-mail for more information.
