Who do you teach? / Am I too old/young?

Lessons are open to anyone of any ability and any age from 5 upwards. Remember, you are never too old to take up an instrument!

Where are lessons taught?

Lessons are taught in an unrivalled professional home teaching studio at my Nuneaton home. The studio is equipped with a Yamaha Stage Custom acoustic drum kit with Sabian cymbals, a Roland TD3 electronic drum kit, LP congas and various percussion, Meinl Cajons and various percussion, djembes, keyboards and PA system for playback and accompaniment.

Do you travel?

While I am able to travel out to teach, please be aware that this would have to be arranged around all other teaching, rehearsal and gigging commitments. It's will usually easier to book a lesson at the studio.

Can parents stay during lessons?

Parents of younger students may wish to remain in the studio during lessons. This is not a problem, but please try and maintain a low-key presence wherever possible.

Do I need to own a drum kit?

Whilst it does help to have your own kit to practice on between lessons, it is not essential that you own one straight away. Practice pads are a good short-term solution. I'm happy to give advice on buying your own kit.

Can I take exams?

Yes! Exams are a great way to improve your ability as a musician, and if it's what you want to do you will be encouraged to take them. In over a decade of teaching I have never had a student fail an exam, so rest assured you will be taught all you need to know to pass. Grade 6-8 exams also give you UCAS points and I've had many students go on to study music at university. However, if you want to take lessons without taking exams this is also not a problem.

I've had lessons with another teacher, is this a problem?

Not at all, but please remember my teaching methods may be different to those of your last tutor. I will assess your playing in your first lesson and identify any areas that need work. My aim is to help you become a better musician.

What do I need to bring?

For your first lesson you don't need to bring anything, although you may wish to bring your own sticks. Alternatively you can purchase sticks at the start of your lesson. In your first lesson you will be given a practice book, which you should bring to each lesson.

What if I need to cancel my lesson?

To cancel a lesson all you need to do is telephone, text or email with at least 24 hours notice. Lessons missed or cancelled with less than 24 hours notice are still charged at the full rate.

Are you CRB checked?

Yes I hold a full, enhanced and clean CRB check.

What are your qualifications?

BA (Hons) Degree in Music, Technology and Innovation

A levels in Music and Music Technology

Grade 8 Drum kit

Grade 6 Electronic Organ

Grade 5 Cornet

Grade 5 Music Theory

I am also a very experienced teacher having taught privately for over 10 years and spending 5 years as lecturer of music in a further education college. I am currently a peripatetic drum kit and percussion teacher for infant, junior and secondary schools and a music tutor for Bedworth Music Academy.

Alongside teaching I have worked extensively as a freelance musician with orchestras, bands, choirs, ensembles and artists throughout the UK and Europe.