| About |
During his time at Roehampton Institute, John actively participated in numerous performances, showcasing his skills in the intricate African Sanctus by David Fanshawe. This piece seamlessly blended Western drumming techniques with recorded elements and a challenging choral composition. His extensive musical education, covering Rock, Sub-Saharan African music, various African drumming styles. He has also done gigs with a variety of Blues, Jazz, Folk, Wind Band, and Orchestral ensembles which have equipped him with a well-rounded knowledge base which informs and influences his teaching.
Post-graduation, John continued refining his musical experience by playing gigs at renowned London venues like the now-closed Rock Garden in Covent Garden and the Kings Head in Fulham. As a freelance musician, he collaborated with diverse bands, notably contributing drums, lyrics and arrangements to “The Lost Eskimos'” album “Say Goodbye,” available on iTunes. His involvement continued when he relocated from the London area to recording demos for original artists and composers.
For the past few years, John has showcased his drumming expertise locally in various ensembles, serving as a drummer/percussionist and providing sound effects for well-known local productions such as “We Will Rock You,” “War of the Worlds,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “9 to 5”, “Sister Act”, “Bugsy Malone” & “Grease”. Actively gigging in his local area, he derives immense pleasure from delivering live music experiences. Additionally, John offers his drumming and sound effect services for corporate events, local church performances, and is adept at stepping in last-minute for other productions and gigs. John also plays in an Oktoberfest band throughout October called The Oompapas which plays traditional Oompah music and dance variations (they call it “Bavarian Disco” of well known classics. This band has worked over most of the UK including Army and RAF bases, pubs, clubs and private parties and are always incredibly popular with all who have witnessed their playful antics.
With 22 years of teaching experience, John imparts his drumming knowledge in diverse settings, holding current teaching positions at Melksham Oak Community School, Clarendon Academy, John of Gaunt School, St Augustine’s and Walwayne Court Primary School. His teaching success is evident in guiding students through initial drumming stages, exam preparations and taking the exams. John has kept a 100% pass rate for all students who have taken exams with his guidance.
John firmly believes that everyone has the ability to play drums and puts no pressure on students to progress at a a certain rate. Each student is treated as an individual and their goals are worked towards whilst also ensuring that the foundation they are building from is rock solid. As a lifelong student himself, John continually puts himself into the mindset of students being asked to do things they’re not sure they can. He does this by having lessons with Craig Blundell, one of the UK’s top Prog drummers, as well as courses online through Stephens Drumshed. By continually improving on his skills set and not sitting back, John remains committed to being the best drummer and teacher that he can be.
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51.2965545654297,-2.20946598052979
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