Meet Michael De Palma: Drum Teacher at Maxx Music
Meet Michael De Palma, one of our much loved drum teachers. With over 30 years of drumming experience and a lifelong passion for music, Michael (affectionately known as MDP) brings incredible energy, skill, and heart to his teaching. We thought this was the perfect time to sit down with him, learn more about what drives his love for music, and share it with you, our Maxx Music community.
You’ll find Michael teaching at our Rouse Hill School on Tuesdays and Saturdays (to start with). Be sure to say hi when you see him around.
What made you decide to pursue a career in music?
Music is a passion of mine! It makes me feel good, whether its drumming or dancing, it inspires me and is something I have to have in my life.
Why did you decide to teach music?
I find it very rewarding and enjoy working with people of all ages to share the same interest with them and also to inspire people to try a musical instrument and music as an option to have in their life. My teachers encouraged me I have been working in the school environment from a young age, I wanted to pass my passion on to the next generation.
How did you get into music?
I grew up in a household surrounded by hearing music at family events and regularly hearing music played in the house, which inspired me for drums and dancing.
Who are your musical heroes, and how have they influenced you?
Michael Jackson, Red Hot Chill Peppers, Phil Collins, Toto, Offspring and many more. This inspired me to pursue my passion for listening to music, to learn drums and dance.
What are your top tips for getting the most out of practicing?
To have a consisted routine every day. A mixture of quality, quantity and specific practice achieves the best results.
What has been your most rewarding experience as a musician?
Enjoying entertaining a huge crowd of people in a musical venue at Fox Studios in Sydney with everyone appreciating and joining in with the performance and feeling the vibe. The feedback from them and the adrenalin rush was so rewarding!
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians based on your own experiences?
Enjoy the moment and take every opportunity that comes your way, whether its preforming in front of many people or teaching someone a new song. Never take it for granted. The most important thing is to be happy and thankful and have fun!
Outside of music, what are some hobbies or interests you have?
I love aviation i.e. planes! I have a pilot license and can fly. I also love cars and have a nice one that I like and own. Space exploration. watches and sports such as soccer and cricket.
What’s a truly unforgettable concert you’ve attended?
U2 and Coldplay. They were unforgettable performances because of the big concert atmosphere, hearing the music at that level and the size of the audience.
What’s your favourite music decade and why?
There are many, but mainly the 70’s 80’s 90’s and 2000’s. These eras have a whole range of musical songs and genres that have inspired to be who I am today in my musical journey.
Have you been inspired to learn drums? Contact us by calling 0298940000 or fill in our form.
