“I strive to educate students of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds, arming them with the power of music to affect the perspectives and culture around them. As an educator, I aim to provide training in an inspiring, engaging, and instructive setting. My experience ranges from elementary school to college, bands to individuals, and master classes to one-on-one instruction. My ability to adapt and connect with each student is unparalleled, allowing them to excel in their unique musical journey.” - Davi Martinelli de Lira

Private Studio

With over 20+ years of teaching and performance experience, Davi is able to teach everything from World Percussion (Drum kit, Congas, Bongos, Pandeiro, etc.) to Orchestral Percussion (Xylophone, Marimba, Snare Drum, Timpani, etc.). His course will also cover music theory and notation, enabling you to learn faster and better! All genres are available. He will create a syllabus that fits your goals and conditions, with a motivating and personalized methodology.

Lesson Offered in:

  • Percussion

    Learn how to read music and explore different techniques among all the most important orchestral percussion instruments. Such as the Xylophone, Marimba, Bells, Timpani, Snare Drum, Cymbals, Tambourine, and Triangle.

  • World Percussion

    Adventure in the vast universe of world percussion. Delve into Latin American, African, European and Asian culture through the most iconic percussion instruments, like congas, bongos, timbales, frame drum, pandeiro, and shakers.

  • Drum Set

    Master a variety of music styles on the drum set, and be prepared for any jam session. Go through standard method books and song transcriptions to acquire a solid idiom of your desired music genre, including Rock, Jazz, Funk, Latin, etc.

Elizabeth City State University

Adjunct Percussion Instructor

Davi joined the Department of Music of ECSU as their Adjunct Percussion Instructor in the Fall of 2024. Their program seeks to develop musicianship by building a strong foundation in music theory, aural skills, music history and music technology through performance opportunities and enriched experiences.

Virginia Symphony Orchestra - Education & Community Engagement

Percussion Instructor

VSO musicians dedicate many hours each season to reaching young people in our community with educational programming. The roster of programs includes:

Master Classes, where the VSO’s internationally acclaimed guest soloists provide instruction to young musicians

SOAR, an artist residency program matching VSO musicians with local schools for coaching and mentorship

Young People’s Concerts, a series that brings elementary students from 11 cities to their first orchestra concert

The Harmony Project, partnering with 11 historically black churches in Hampton Roads to provide music for church services and youth programs.

Davi is frequently invited to join the project as their Percussion Instructor, giving masterclasses and coaching students on their large ensembles rehearsals.

Testimonials

  • Nathan - Chesapeake, VA

    “Davi has been amazing to work with! The kids respond very well to him and he has catered his approach to the different kids, he even changes what type of music he teaches them with to their favorite songs. This keeps this engaged and excited for lessons. We started the kids on lessons when they were 6 & 7 and they have done very well and progressed. I would highly recommend Davi to anyone wanting to start their kids on drums/percussion or advance their own knowledge.”

  • Rafael - Florianópolis, Brazil

    “I took online lessons with Davi a few years ago. At the time I was the drummer of Soluarea, a Brazilian Rock/Reggae/Funk band. Davi helped me to polish my technique and improved my music theory knowledge. Due to his lessons I acquired a better control on the set and was able to learn songs faster. I really enjoyed his teaching approach!”

  • Mónica Navas - Quito, Ecuador

    "I took a few lessons with Davi while I was preparing for an audition for the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional del Ecuador's Percussion/Timpani position. His knowledge of all the percussion instruments was impressive, and he had a clear concept about every single excerpt. His comments were super helpful and it definitely elevated my playing. In the end, I was fortunate to win the audition! I am really grateful for Davi's guidance in this process."

  • Rubens - São Paulo, Brazil

    “Davi helped me prepare for an upcoming timpani audition. His comments were super helpful and easy to digest. With his experience and guidance I am feeling much more comfortable with the repertoire. I strongly suggest his lessons to anyone who wants high level feedback!”

  • Kacy - Norfolk, VA

    '"Mr. Lira taught my 12 year old daughter for a year. He was always patient with her and attentive. She loved the lessons and got very excited about percussion while working with him. Unfortunately we've had to put a pause on lessons for the time being, but we can't wait to start them again!"

  • Anthony - Los Angeles, CA

    “As a program coordinator, I worked with Davi in the Jumpstart Program at the Colburn School. One of Davi’s most redeeming qualities is his patience and willingness to work with our students and families who come from a wide variety of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.