About

About

Hi! I’m James (most people call me Jay), a passionate drum tutor based in Stratford-upon-Avon, helping drummers of all ages discover the excitement, creativity and sheer joy of playing the drums.

My musical journey started in Chester, where I picked up my first pair of sticks at the age of 12 as part of a marching Scout Band. Marching was the perfect foundation — it drilled in timing, discipline and all the rudimental building blocks that shaped me into the drummer I am today. By 15, I was behind a full drum kit and completely hooked.

After moving to Stratford, I jumped straight into the local music scene, playing in various bands, winning a Battle of the Bands competition, and even landing a slot on the local radio station The Bear FM back in the day — an experience I’ll never forget!

I now teach drums both independently and through Top Of The Rock Music Tuition, working in schools as well as running my own drum school. I love making lessons fun, confidence-building and inspiring, whether you’re playing your very first beat or jamming along to your favourite tracks.

What I Teach

🎵 Stick grip & control

🎵 Bass pedal technique

🎵 Rudiments & sticking patterns

🎵 Theory of drumming

🎵 Reading drum music & note values

🎵 Independence, creativity & musicality

🎵 Grades up to Grade 5

My goal is to help you build great habits, play with confidence and develop your own unique style.

Why Learn With Me?

✔ Friendly, patient and enthusiastic tutor

✔ Fun, engaging lessons tailored to you

✔ Fully insured

✔ Enhanced DBS

✔ Member of the Musicians’ Union

If you’re ready to start your drumming journey — or level up your skills — I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a message and let’s get drumming!

Jay

Location

22 Woodlands Road Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire CV37 0DH United Kingdom

Geolocation

52.2052116394043,-1.71176421642303

Instrument(s) Taught

Drums

Where do lessons take place?

Teacher's Location, Student's House, Online

Prices

30 minutes

£24.00

45 minutes

£30.00

60 minutes

£36.00

Other Lesson Prices

I have the use of Top Of The Rock Studios where I teach 60min lessons on a Sunday. If you were to select this option, if spaces available, these lessons are charged at £40 per/hr.

Discounted Introductory Lesson

Yes

Preferred Payment Currency

🇬🇧 Pound sterling (£ GBP)

Lessons Frequency

Weekly, Fortnightly, Flexible Schedule

Payment Plans

Pay-As-You-Go

Payment Methods

Cash, Online Bank Transfer

Contact

Get in Touch

Teacher Profile Enquiry

Lessons

Level(s) Taught

Beginner (up to Grade 5)

Youngest Age Taught

8

Class Sizes

One-to-One (Individual)

Graded Exam Preparation

RSL Awards (Rockschool)

Genres

Genres Taught

Blues, Country, Disco, Funk, Hip hop, Jazz, Pop, Reggae, Rock, Ska, Soul music

Sub-Genres Taught

Grunge, Hard Rock, Metal, Punk Rock

My Musical Inspirations

My musical influences are honestly too many to mention—I’ve always been drawn to high-energy, expressive and powerful music. I grew up listening to everything from Iron Maiden, Metallica and AC/DC to The Doors and Led Zeppelin, and I’ve got a massive love for Grunge, Metal, Heavy Metal, Heavy Rock and Classic Rock.

 

When it comes to drummers, the list is just as long. Some of the players who have had a huge impact on my style include Nicko McBrain, Phil Rudd, Mike Portnoy, Dave Grohl, Lars Ulrich, Stewart Copeland, Neil Peart and Danny Carey; and the list honestly goes on. Their creativity, technique and individuality continue to inspire the way I play and teach today.

Reviews

Reviews

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Leave a Review

Supported Learning

I support students with these SEN / Additional Access Requirements:

Autistic Spectrum / Neurodiverse, Moderate Learning Needs, Social, Emotional or Mental Health Related Requirements

Languages

Language(s) Spoken

English

Professionalism

Safeguarding Certificate

None

Date of Safeguarding Certificate

December 31, 2023

Liability Insurance

Yes, I have public / general liability insurance

Professional Affiliations

Musician’s Union

Please Note

Disclaimer and Feedback

MusicTeacher.com is not affiliated, nor endorses, any of the teachers listed on this page. Studying with a registered MusicTeacher.com teacher does not give a candidate any advantage or guarantee a better result in an examination.

If you have any feedback regarding any information provided then please feel free to contact us.

Things to Check Before Choosing

  • Teaching Fees: Compare the fees with other teachers in the area. Ensure the fees are transparent and reasonable. Check if there are any additional costs (e.g., materials, exam fees).
  • Qualifications: Verify the teacher’s qualifications and experience. Check if they have relevant music degrees, certifications, or professional experience in music education.
  • Professionalism: Consider whether a teacher holds a recent safeguarding certificate, public/general liability insurance and is a member of a professional music organizations or associations. These are important for ensuring a safe and professional learning environment.
  • Reliability: Look for reviews or testimonials from current or past students. Consistent positive feedback can indicate a reliable teacher.
  • Teaching Style: Consider if their teaching style aligns with your learning preferences. Some teachers offer trial lessons which can be a good opportunity to assess compatibility.
  • Specialisations: Check if the teacher specializes in the instrument or musical genre you are interested in. Specialised teachers can offer more in-depth knowledge and techniques.
  • Location and Availability: Ensure the teacher’s location and schedule fit your needs. Consider the convenience of travel and the flexibility of lesson timings.
  • Communication: Assess the teacher’s communication skills. Clear and open communication is essential for effective learning and addressing any concerns promptly.

Socials

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ratamacuedrums

Profile

First Name

James

Last Name

Neve

Username

james-neve

GUID

6ecd9299-bb2b-4e49-b2eb-2141e1c06c4d

User nicename

james-neve

Moderation: Activate Membership

✅ Completed

Moderation: Safeguarding/Background Check

⏳ Under Review

Moderation: Insurance Verification

✅ Verified

isMigratedRslAwardsTeacher

TRUE