DRUMS

James

James is a professional drummer and an educator with a diverse range of musical interests. His recent musical endeavours have included touring the UK with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO), the Jersey Boys tribute theatre show Bye Bye Baby and electronic brass band Hyde Park Brass. He also plays regular rock and pop gigs in London and the South-East, and performs frequently in the house jazz band at The Ritz.

In addition to drumming, James plays classical piano and achieved numerous first place prizes in Lincolnshire music festivals during his teens. He has training in classical and jazz voice and is currently working upon constructing a portfolio of original songs in the soft-rock/alternative genre.

James’s primary objective for students of any level is to develop a creative and improvisational mind-set that they can employ in any playing situation. He encourages students to study and absorb the playing of master drummers that inspire them so that they can develop their own unique musical voice on the instrument. James tailors his teaching to the needs and individual ambitions of each student, whether they wish to broaden their knowledge of musical styles, learn to sight-read in high pressure practical situations, study for exams, improve their technical facility, or simply learn to play along with their favourite songs. 

Education: 

• The Guildhall School of Music and Drama – MMus Jazz

• The University of Leeds/The University of North Texas - BMus (Hons)