“I don't know where I'm going from here, but I promise it won't be boring.”
DAVID BOWIE
Greetings!
I'm Elissa Nova.
I'm a classically-trained percussionist, Star Trek nerd, historical recreator, and all-around weirdo, and I've been playing drums since before time began.
I've performed in venues big and small, from Symphony Hall to Football Stadiums to Renaissance Festivals to Intimate Livingroom Haflas (ask me what a hafla is - I'll tell you!), and my percussion skills range from sheet-music-reading orchestral percussion to corps-style drumline to rockin' fusion street drums to Taiko to belly dance shows to old-timey war drums on a medieval battlefield.
But beyond all that, I LOVE playing classical Arabic percussion! The drum and belly dance community have brought me some of the most amazing experiences AND people in my life! I'd love to be your guide in exploring this vast, wonderful world of drum and dance.
We Can Uplevel your Skills, One Note at a Time.
Okay, maybe guru sounds a bit much, but allow me to be your drum....person!
I teach adult drummers, musicians, belly dancers, belly dance spouses, and the drum-curious how to play classical Arabic Doumbek/Darbuka/Derbekki/Tabla...or whatever you want to call it! I can teach you from the ground up if you are just starting, beginning with your very first note. And if you've been playing for a while - you're in luck! - because I love helping intermediate and advanced players up their game.
In addition to technique, rhythm, and nuts-and-bolts playing, I also coach drummers in dealing with the ins and outs of creating a music career, performing, starting or maintaining a band, and getting paid. (And if it applies to you, being a lady drummer in a world dominated by man hands). For dancers, I can teach you drums, rhythms, or how a drum solo is put together. For ultimate fun, catch one of my live drum solo workshops where dancers and drummers can learn the art of soloing and practice with each other.
NEVER FEAR - there's fun for everyone!
My current events and course offerings can be found below, and please consider joining my mailing list so I can update you with opportunities to study with me.
Let's Work Together.
My Offerings and Services.
Live Event: Rhythm Workshop for Dancers
June 22, 2024. Fort Collins, CO.
A Workshop for the Dancers! In-Person Dance Rhythm Workshop with Elissa and Hannah Mahoney.
Video Guide to Playing at Haflas
A Quick Video Course with Rhythm Library and play-alongs. Advice on how a drum jam works at a Middle Eastern event, how to join in, and some good rhythms to know!
Private Lessons: Online or In Person
Targeted lessons to tackle any of your drumming needs [- technique, musicality, advice, show or audition prep - you name it! These can be online or in person in Longmont, CO.
Live Event
June 22, 2024
Join Elissa and Hannah for a fun rhythm-filled dance workshop! This is a great opportunity to expand your rhythm catalog, practice to live drums, and ask all the questions about working with live musicians (as opposed to the dead ones).
Workshop attendees will be invited to a private hafla (i.e. Middle Eastern dance party) later that night to practice what they learned.
See More and Sign Up
Join Our Mailing List for Updates and Offers
I'll keep you updated on the latest comings and goings in drum land, ways to study with me, opportunities to play - all the things!
