We recently connected with Stefano Ashbridge and have shared our conversation below.
Stefano, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter Syndrome is a common issue. I try to be honest with myself about where my strengths and weaknesses are at the moment. That way when those feelings of not being good enough come up, I can put them in their proper place. I can acknowledge that I am not perfect but that I have something to offer.
Along with that is preparation and practice. Putting in the time to be ready for what I am facing.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Music has always been a major part of my life. I have spent the last 30 years developing successful methods and solutions that guide my students to improve quickly and have fun learning the music they love.
I began teaching early into my drumming studies when my teacher asked me to fill in when he wasn’t available. That made it easy for me to relate to my students and my love of teaching grew alongside my love of drumming. I have studied the drums with William Lyons, Mark Schulman (Pink, Foreigner), and Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, New Edition).
I have played the drums on albums, toured internationally with a variety of artists, and even won the “Electronica Drummer of The Year” at the L.A. Music Awards. I have appeared on DrumChannel.com as a guest panelist and was asked to judge the Hit Like a Girl contest. More importantly, though, I have coached hundreds of drummers of all ages and skill levels. Nothing makes me more proud than when my students play their first show, record an album, or go on tour.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Curiosity- I have a passion for what I do and want to learn as much as I can about how I can be the best version of myself. That would include learning how others in the field achieved success.
2. Plan- I try to formulate a plan to take clear steps to reach my goals.
3. Learn to Love the Process-Learning any skill comes with a level of frustration. Learning to manage the steps to reaching my goals and seeing the gradual results from my efforts helps me to have the right attitude.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
Growing up, my parents started a restaurant and the family all worked there at various times. I saw their hard work and determination pay off. I get my work ethic from their example.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://drumlessonsinla.com
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