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A little bit of background into how I got into drumming, influences and hopes for the future.
I started gaining an interest in drums at a very early age. As far back as I can remember really.
I have very early memories of 'Top of the pops', intently watching the drummers on there.
In the early days, persuading my parents that it was a good idea, was a major obstacle to
overcome. Particularly noise fears! In fact it continued to be a problem but looking back I feel it
made me more determined. Strange as it may seem I remember learning a paradiddle years
before I ever had my own kit. When I was able to I purchased a practice kit and then I could practice
all the hours possible. Practicing was never a problem for me really. I always relished it. Some
times I would practice all day.
Essentially I was initially a self-taught drummer. I learnt to play by trying to emulate my drum
heroes of the day, in particular Nicko McBrain. Not just playing along but watching videos. However,
after several years, I realised that I could learn so much more from an experienced tutor.
Purely by luck really, I came across Paul Francis. Paul has been a major influence on my playing
over the years, and an amazing supporter. I owe him a real debt of gratitude. Paul has not only
been a great tutor, friend, and introduced me to many other great drummers, but also very
encouraging and supportive. Paul encouraged me and believed I'd make a good tutor.I however
took several years before I felt it was appropriate for me to start teaching.
I have studied all styles of music- from traditional/modern Jazz, Latin, Reggae, African styles, to
metal. I love to listen to many different styles of music.Keeping an open mind is very important.
My drum influences are pretty vast really. Here are just a few- Nicko McBrain , Dave Weckl , Terry
Bozzio, Greg Bisonette , Mike Portnoy , Dennis Chambers, Mike Bordin , Virgil Donati etc As you
may notice many of them aren't traditional influences you always hear about. For example Buddy
Rich.In later years I came to appreciate the greatness of such drummers but I believe in being
honest about early influences rather than jumping on the bandwagon. I studied many of these
musical styles and undertook Guildhall exams for which I am still a big fan of (especially the new
syllabus).
I have played in numerous band over the years from original rock bands trying to make it big, to
covers/tribute bands, a Classical Orchestra playing Classical/film music, and jazz. Although I love to
play rock I would say that I try and focus my attentions on becoming a better player of all styles.I feel
equally fulfilled playing Jazz as I would playing thrash metal. I have a fair amount of studio
experience both live recordings and separate and also with and without click.
I also auditioned for ' Blaze' (fronted by Iron Maiden/Wolfsbane vocalist Blaze Bayley).
For the last few of years I have played for a band I formed called Fearbreeder. We play heavy metal
and classic rock covers, with a few of our own thrown in for good measure. We have enjoyed great
successes at gigs, gained quite a following in some places, and enjoy the challenge of the material.
I am just starting a new musical project which will pose some new musical challenges alongside
Fearbreeder which I hope continues for some time yet. I assist/advise various orchestras on
percussion roles and I write for and direct a percussion ensemble.
I am very proud of what I have achieved in the past 5 years especially in terms of my continued
development as a teacher and performer, putting on clinics, gaining an excellent record for grade
results with no failures, seeing students achieve success and forming a great band with a
dedicated following. I believe I am only just beginning really on this journey.I am more determined
and ambitious than ever. I'd love to see Britain well and truly on the drumming map once again.
Although I work heavily in tuition, I am available for recording , touring and session work.
I am able to play double bass drums, effects pedals, odd time, all styles etc. I am able to sight read
to a high standard I have excellent kit and I am click friendly.
