Do I need to purchase a full drum set before my first lesson?

No. Although it is helpful in further stages of development, many drummers, myself included, have started their lessons on a snare drum or practice pad. This can actually be beneficial as it allows beginners time to develop technique and reading skills on a single surface before applying that to the multiple surfaces of a drum set. For snare drum students, a practice pad and sticks is all that is needed. 

What type of drum set should I buy: electronic or acoustic?

Both have their pros and cons, but most of the time I would recommend an acoustic drum set. Many drummers who play strictly on an electronic drum set never develop the touch and technique necessary to play an acoustic drum set when needed. However, if you live in an apartment, or volume is an issue, then electronic drums might  be a must to allow practice.

What age should a child be before starting lessons?

I recommend that students be at least 7 before their first lesson, although I've taken students as young as 5 on a case by case basis.  More important than age is the child's attention span and interest. 

Do you teach how to read written music notation?

Absolutely!  Though some aspects of music can and will be learned by listening, I believe it is very important for musicians to learn how to read musical notation. Imagine going through life without written language...even simple tasks such as ordering lunch from a restaurant menu would seem impossible. Along with standard notation, I include lessons on practical short hand charting methods, such as the Nashville Number System. 

How much should I practice?

I recommend each student set aside at least 20-30 minutes per day, a minimum of 4 days a week for practice. That being said, I find it more profitable to base your practice on accomplishment rather than time. Set goals for what you want to accomplish during the week, look at the days you have available for practice, then divide your practice materials accordingly. Some days may require more time; others less. Remember: "Lessons are worthless without practice."-Josh