Simon Boyar School of Drums and Percussion Faculty
Paul Francis
Paul Francis has extensive experience working with some of the world’s greatest musicians. He is featured on the Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett album and subsequent PBS special “Cheek to Cheek”, and toured extensively with the duo to support that recording. Paul has also recorded and/or performed with Stevie Wonder, Jose Feliciano, Jon Faddis, David Hazeltine, Jim Belushi, Molly Ringwald, Megan Hilty, The Rockettes, Ralph Lalama, Brian Newman, Rich Little, The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra and The Albany Symphony Orchestra, and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra conducted by Buddy Morrow. Paul has also appeared on shows for HBO, ABC, NBC, Netflix and MTV, and is on the soundtrack for the movie “Friends with Kids” as well as “A Star is Born” featuring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper.
Paul holds a Bachelor of Music from The Ohio State University and a Master of Music from SUNY Purchase. He has studied with musicians such as John Riley, Kenny Washington,
Jim Chapin, Jim Rupp, Joe Ong and Chad Rager.​ As an educator, Paul has taught all ages and playing levels including master classes at SUNY Purchase, University of Cincinnati, The Ohio State University and Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, as well as continuing to teach at his own private studio. He has also been published in Modern Drummer and Drumhead magazines. He is endorsed by Vic Firth, Sabian, Remo, and Yamaha Drums.
Elijah Duncan
Elijah Duncan is a drummer and percussionist based in Ossining, NY. Elijah began developing his foundational hand technique while studying snare drum with Simon Boyar in the early years of the Simon Boyar Drum School. At the end of high school he studied with Latin Jazz master Adam Cruz before going on to attend the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College. While there he has studied with renowned drummer Matt Wilson and learned from Legendary drummer and jazz historian Kenny Washington. As his time at Jazz School ends Elijah looks to be performing and gigging as much as possible in the area. Elijah is honored to have returned to the Simon Boyar School as a teacher to offer the musical knowledge he has accumulated so far. Coming from a large family, he has much experience with younger learners and enjoys instructing students who are motivated to improve.
Tyler Katz
Tyler Katz is a versatile and passionate drummer with 15 years of experience behind the kit. Starting lessons at the age of 12, Tyler quickly developed a deep love for the drums, immersing himself in a wide range of musical genres including Rock, Pop, Funk, Jazz, Country, Latin, and more.
Throughout his career, Tyler has performed with numerous bands, gigging both locally and across the country. From intimate venues to large stages, he has brought this dynamic drumming style to audiences everywhere, gaining invaluable experience and a deep understanding of live performance.
His journey took him to SUNY Purchase, where he pursued a degree in Arts Management and became part of a vibrant community of talented musicians. This environment not only honed Tyler's skills, but also expanded his musical horizons.
Now, as an instructor at the Simon Boyar Drum School, Tyler is excited to share his knowledge and experience, giving back to the community that has played such a pivotal role in his musical journey. Whether guiding beginners or advancing experienced players, Tyler is dedicated to helping students unlock their full potential and find their own unique voice on the drums.
Dolores Beck
Manhattan School of Music, BM degree, French horn major NYU/SUNY New Paltz, BS, Music Therapy major Music Academy of the West and Tanglewood Teaching piano privately for over 60 years. Music therapy specialist with Aspbergers, ADD, ADHD and emotionally challenged children of all ages. Performed with: American Ballet Theatre at Lincoln Center, American Symphony Orchestra at Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall and various Broadway Shows. Dolores loves teaching classic rock, jazz, improvisation as well as the classical repertoire.