My first experiences drumming:

I first took an interest in drumming and music when I was around 5 years old. I got my first drum kit a couple of years later, but I didn't start having lessons until 2018 when I was 11. When I was 12 I started attending rehearsals for Walsall Youth Jazz Orchestra. I hadn't been playing properly for very long and had no experience in playing with a band, so I felt way out of my depth. Luckily for me I wasn't the only drummer so I got help from the other drummer that was there. He was a good few years older than me so he had a lot more experience, and a lot more confidence than me. I got to play one song in their Christmas show, which was just all of the local jazz orchestras performing. I can remember being very nervous beforehand, even though the song I was playing was one of the easier songs

My parents are both musicians so I have always been in a musical environment growing up. I have been going to their gigs for as long as I can remember

Some of my drumming influences are: Jeff Pocaro, Vinnie Colaiuta, Larnell Lewis, Stewart Copeland and Bernard Purdie. They are all unique and have helped me a lot in my playing.

My favourite bands/artists include: Steely Dan, Toto, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and The Jacksons. 

 

What I'm doing now:

I am currently at college studying music performance. I am nearly at the end of my course and will be going to University to do music. I have enjoyed my time at college and have learnt a lot. I am also playing in a band with my dad, and attending workshops for a gospel band in Birmingham.  I have created a showreel to promote myself as a session drummer which there will be a link to on the next slide. Music is something that I am very passionate about and I hope to have a very long career doing it.