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!, DCI Hall of Fame) 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.
"I am very impressed with Jeff as a player and teacher of drums. He is a dedicated artist who continues to learn and study. This is the best attitude to have to grow and learn and to teach!" Dom Famularo - Drumming's Global AmbassadorAlong with his instructors, his influences include: Thom Hannum, Jim Chapin, Dave Weckl, Steve Gadd, Joe Morello, Buddy Rich, Neil Peart and Thomas Lang to name a few.
Past and present instructors include:
- Sam Aliano (drum set, Billy Sheehan, 3 days Grace, Frank Gambale)
- Tom Aungst (Cadets of Bergen County Drum Corps, DCI Hall of Fame, West Chester University)
- Carl Boos (Cadets of Bergen County Drum Corps and cymbal mentor)
- Dom Famularo (drum set, author, and world famous clinician)
- Dave Uosikkinen (drum set, The Hooters, In The Pocket, Patty Smyth, Cyndi Lauper, Rod Stewart, Alice Cooper, Pretty Poison)
- Ken Vogel (drum set, author both books and for Modern Drummer Magazine)
Jeff has been teaching for over 25 years. From beginner to advanced levels.
Styles include:
- Rock
- Jazz
- Fusion
- Pop
- Swing
- Funk
- Reggae
- Heavy Metal
The percussion studio includes:
- Three drum sets
- Several sets of practice pads
- A marching snare drum
- A full library of books and videos on drumming technique
- Wireless Internet and laptops for training via Skype
Jeff is proudly using:
- Drum Workshop Drums
- American Drum Sticks
- Sabian Cymbals
- Hansenfütz Practice Pedals
Jeff is available for lessons, Skype lessons, and clinics nationwide. Please send an e-mailor call (610) 291 -8222 for more information.
