Music has been a major part of my life since I was 12 years old when I had my first drumming lesson. Throughout the years I have experienced, educated myself and pushed myself to become a better drummer and musician.

My journey with drums started at a small school called Foundation Groove, founded by my drum tutor James De Lovell. There I learnt the basics of drumming which sparked my love for it. I was involved in lots of shows and drum clinics for all ages to learn, play and grow with other drummers and musicians. I was also studying music at my Secondary School and completed it at the CXC level.

From there I then applied at the Barbados Community College (BCC) in Applied Arts Music. I gained great experience playing in multiple ensembles, each with their own style and genre of music. I was able to play at different cultural events such as the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts (NIFCA) run by the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) Barbados and be a part of the Youth Pan Project Seniors. This gave me the opportunity to understand myself more and what it’s like to be a part of a band.

The college opened my eyes more to the music industry and the challenges that come when pursuing to being a successful musician. Constant rehearsing, studying and practising to ensure you were ready to create and strive on your own.

After my 2 years at BCC, I joined my first local band called Jenn and 166. A rock band. During my time with them, we won a competition against another popular band called Masala. Hosted by Chum FM Breakfast in Barbados, a Canadian radio station. We were chosen to open the concert for One Republic held at Holders House, Barbados. This gave me more insight into band progress, musicianship, exposure and experience on stage in front of thousands.

I then took the opportunity to create my own band called Tranzishun (transition). With each band member specialized in different genres of music, we were able to take the multi-genre band across Barbados performing at various venues, restaurants, hotels and cultural events. We were also able to be the backing band for famous British R&B Artists, MBE Omar Lye-Fook, Don-E and Carol Thompson at the London Elite All White Party in Barbados.

I later joined another band called Kalead and Kayaweh. A Reggae based band. We toured Jamaica for Reggae Month in February 2018. We attended multiple live radio sessions, interviews, live performances and collaborations. We also recorded with upcoming artists and met Dre Tosh (Peter Tosh’s grandson) at the Tuff Gong studio founded by Bob Marley in Kensington Jamaica. We were able to watch live performances by famous artists such as Luciano the Messenjah, Taurus Rilley and many others.

Through all my experiences I was able to share my talent and my love for music with others. I was able to witness professionals and learn from them, I was able to connect to different artists and cultures and add to my own style of play. I love all genres of music and I’m very versatile because of my experiences.

I have also taught younger children as a way to give back what I have learnt over the years. I enjoy the interaction and enthusiasm of the children I teach and will continue doing so.

Music Qualifications & Achievements:

Skills

• Teaching drums to children and young adults, whilst building student’s confidence and individuality on drums
• Competent communicator when teaching technical concepts to students and fellow musicians
• Strong desire to perform all pieces of music to the best of my abilities
• Planned practice sessions and a constant dedication to excellence to achieve my goals
• Goal-oriented mindset
• Good sight-reading ability

Education

• England BMUS (HONS) in Popular Music Performance – Drums in Music, BIMM London, 2018 – Present
• Bridgetown, Saint Michael Associates Degree in Applied Arts – Music in MusicBarbados Community College, May 2015
• Barbados Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) in The Alexandra School, May 2013

Certifications

• Associates Degree in Applied Arts – Music
• The Associated Board of the Royal School of Music Grade 3
• The Associated Board of the Royal School of Music Grade 5