Showcasing 34 incredible artists
Tom Grennan / Modern Rock
Adam Gammage is one of the new generation of drummers to emerge on the seen. Already worked with such artists as Sam Smith, Rebecca Ferguson, James Arther, Elliot Sumner, The Hours to name a few. Adam has been on tours supporting Kasabian and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and is now the drummer for Tom Grennan. Adam is a Dream Cymbal and Grestch Drum artist and has been on clinic tours with Canadian drummer Scott Pellegrom.
Progressive / Educator
Alex Cohen has now emerged as one of the most advanced progressive drummers on the planet. Called, ‘Incredible’ by Thomas Lang, and ‘A revelation’ by Virgil Donati, Alex is pushing the boundaries of what was thought to be possible on the drum set. Both of his books, ‘Ultimate Progressive Drumming’, and ‘Extreme Polyrhythm And Speed Techniques’ (co-authored with Brazilian drumming icon Ramon Montagner) have received rave reviews from drummers ranging from Derek Roddy to John Riley. A faculty member at the world-renowned Drummer’s Collective in York City, Alex maintains a busy teaching and gigging schedule, as well as running a high-end recording studio in Pennsylvania. As of 2024, he is the recipient of the ‘Louie Bellson Award’ from Drumeo for his innovations on the instrument with independence and double bass. Alex will be also releasing his third book, and conducting drum camps all over the world as well. Alex endorses: Yamaha Drums, Paiste Cymbals, ProMark Drumsticks, Evans Drumheads, RimRiser Percussion, Prologix Pads, and Lowboy Beaters https://www.alexcohendrums.com/about
ELP / Progressive Rock
Professional Drummer
Colin Woolway is a well-known drummer, teacher and the author. Colin has been playing and teaching drums professionally since 1976. During those years he’s done every kind of gig including theatre, Jazz, cabaret and variety shows as well as eight years with Suzi Quatro.
Goldfrapp / Paloma Faith
Daisy started her career as part of the Kingston Youth Concert Band, in Greater London. Moving to the percussion section from the trumpet 4 stand she quickly took to the Kit, Timpani, Tuned and Auxiliary percussion with keen enthusiasm. Daisy then became drummer in the Kingston Youth Big Band, opening up opportunities to start projects with other London musicians. These ranged stylistically from soul and jazz to indie and metal, helping Daisy to diversify and develop the musical versatility for which she is known today. During a 3 year BA hons degree at Bristol University, Daisy started playing with well-known artists on the Bristol and U.K. music scene including Pee Wee Ellis, Andy Sheppard, Get The Blessing, Adrian Utley and New Orleans singer Lillian Boutte. She also formed her own band Chairfight which led to the foundations of her project Mesadorm. In 2010, she joined Goldfrapp for the ‘Head First’ World Tour and moved back to London during 2012. There she was a founder member of the band Feverist which led to a collaboration with composer Martin Phipps writing the soundtrack to Series 1 of Peaky Blinders. Since then she has toured and/or recorded with Paloma Faith, Rae Morris, MIKA, Barry Adamson, Hannah Peel, Beth Gibbons, John Metcalfe, Beth Orton, Pepe Belmonte and Bellatrix. As well as continuing to work with Paloma Faith in 2020, Daisy is also running a label ‘Babylegs Records’, a collective imprint founded in 2017 working with promising left-field artists within the industry. Daisy’s other focus for this year will working on the debut album with Feverist, working on new music for the Peaky Blinders Video Game, writing and recording Mesadorm’s second album and touring with 3 Beat Records Artist Jetta. Daisy used exclusively Gretsch drums on ‘The Architect’ tour with Paloma Faith 2017/2018. ‘The Architect’ charted at number 1 on release in November 2017 and has since gone platinum. Daisy particularly favours the BroadKaster as it offers enough vintage sensibilities and versatility for playing a wide range of musical styles within the Paloma Faith show.
Photographer / Drummer
For more than a decade, David Phillips has been the photographer whose unique style and classic shots of drummers have produced some incredible, iconic images of these amazing artists. A Drummer’s Perspective is all about drummers playing live and features photos taken at some of the most amazing rock concerts and festivals. From stadiums to arenas, and drum festivals to clubs, the photos in this book get up close to the action and will give you a unique perspective and inside view on drummers and their world. David has been lucky to work with many of the worlds most respected and influential drummers, often finding himself getting special access at concerts. From backstage to side stage, behind the drummers to looking down from above, David has brought together a collection of shots which give a unique insight to drummers, their playing and their world. As a drummer himself, David is able to truly understand and connect with his subject particularly when working in live environments. Working in Artist Relations has given him unprecedented access to a remarkable array of musicians and bands from all musical genres and styles. David is a self taught lensman who has carved a niche for himself capturing all that the world of drumming has to offer from the glamorous to the gritty with big doses of excitement and realism thrown in. He has self published two books, A Drummer’s Perspective (2010) and From The Riser: A Drummers Perspective II (2016) and his images have been used in magazines worldwide. http://www.music-images.co.uk/
Professional Drummer
Dougie Wright was born on January 10th, 1937 and became an in-demand drummer during the British ‘beat boom’ of the 1960’s. As is the nature of these things, it was his work with the Bill Marsden Big Bandin Leeds which brought him into contact with the band’s sax-player Jimmy Stead.
Latin / World Music
Known for his relentless energy and passion for music, Ed’s personality and approach is infectious, inspiring and motivating. These attributes together with his skill set as a multi-instrumentalist have led him to work globally in numerous facets of the industry, most notably as an independent artist, session artist, clinician, facilitator, presenting masterclasses and performing with his unique ‘circular’ signature rig. Also often referred to as Cybadrummer or Cyba-X, Ed energises crowds whenever he performs, from large festivals to stadiums, clubs and venues around the world. Ed has been drumming since the early age of 6, but as an example of his busy schedule, between 2007-2017 alone he has performed live, delivered workshops and clinics in excess of 2500 times to audiences in 40 countries. In performing at drum clinics, he toured or shared the stage with hundreds of artists/drummers with the likes of Zoro (Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown etc), Tommy Aldridge (Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne), Jerry Brown (Girls Aloud, Will Young etc), Terl Bryant (John Paul Jones etc), Gregg Bissonette (David Lee Roth etc), Raul D’Oliveira (Elton, Wham etc) and many other top guests and performers. He is also an in-demand session drummer for charting artists worldwide. Ed regularly features in the mainstream media for example on numerous television channels in the UK and abroad, examples include the popular ‘Richard & Judy’ show on Channel 4, BBC and ITV news, various Sky channels and the printed media including newspapers, magazines such as ‘Rhythm Magazine’, ‘Home & Away’ and others. Ed holds two Guinness World Records®, one for ’longest drum roll in a group’ with Terl Bryant, Liam Watts and Callum Rees, and the other for conducting the Largest Hand Drum Ensemble in Copenhagen. He is also the director/owner of a multi faceted company comprised of team building and aviation divisions based in the UK, echofoxcompany.co.uk. In his current live schedule Ed is on the road with his ‘I Hit Stuff!’ live tours and shows and collaborating with a number of artists and bands, more info available on the news page!
Session / Educator
Gabor Dornyei is one of the most in demand and successful Solo Artists, Session Drummers, and Drum Clinicians/Educators of his generation who emerged out of Europe in recent years. Gabor’s diverse talent led him to perform all around the Globe, including USA, Asia, Africa, all over Europe & UK, Scandinavia, Russia and countless other places. This outstanding drummer performed at the London Jazz Festival, Sziget Festival, Glastonbury Festival, Love Supreme, London Latin Jazz Festival amongst hundreds of others and participated in the London production of MJ Thriller Live World Tour for three consecutive years. The UK resident drummer and band leader has been listed and shared the stage with some of the World’s leading drummers, such as Billy Cobham and Gavin Harrison at Dresdner Drum Festival, Steve Smith and Ian Paice at Adams Drum Show in the Netherlands, with Steve Gadd, Marvin Smitty Smith and Terry Bozzio at Opole Drum Fest in Poland, Peter Erskine, Gregg Bisonette and Thomas Pridgen at London Drum Show, Chris Coleman in Moscow, Jojo Mayer in Hungary and at many-many other major international Drum Shows. As solo recording artist Gabor released three critically acclaimed DVD-s, 1. “Drums, Music and Friends” 2.“Thunder Duo (feat Kornel Horvath) with Dom Famularo” (digitally available from Hudson Music NYC) and 3.“Rhythm Frontier” -featuring world percussionist Pete Lockett- and also released two CDs under his own name. As session player he’s contributed to over 100 albums, including Gold and Platinum selling pop-rock albums and several cartoon and movie soundtracks for Walt Disney amongst other UK/EU sessions. One of Gabor’s real passions is drum education, and he’s achieved a “Master’s Level 7 PG Cert qualification at the University of East London (UEL) and he’s been awarded with FHEA (Fellow of Higher Education Academy in the UK). He’s Head Of Drums at DIME-ONLINE (Detroit Institute of Music Education-Online UK/USA), drum faculty at ICMP-London (The Institute of contemporary Music Performance) and Visiting Professor at the SWISS DRUM Academy (SDA). He’s educating his private students at GABBEY ROAD Studio, London via Skype (from all around the globe) or in person in North West London, UK.. His Drum Clinics and Masterclasses are also hugely in demand, he’s held packed events at the Los Angeles Music Academy (LAMA), University of Southern California(USC), ICMP, BIMM, TECH, ACM, Drumsense, etc in the UK, Berlin Drumtrainer, Hamburg School of Music, Frankfurt Music Academy and Salzgitter Drummer Meeting in Germany, Swiss Drum Academy, Croatia Drum Camp, Slagwerkkrant Drum Fest Netherlands, etc..amongst hundreds of others. His two most recent solo filming “ Moving Around The Kit” on DRUMCHANNEL in Los Angeles, California, USA (with Don Lombardi) and “Percussive Drumming and Independence” on DRUMEO in Vancouver, Canada has brought him worldwide success, but even before that the global drumming media constantly featured him over the last decade as well. He’s been interviewed in Modern Drummer Magazine, Rhythm, Drummer, Drums&Percussion, Batterie, Drum Club, Stick Magazine, Top Drummer, Perkusysta, Slagwerkkrant and lots more. In 2016 Gabor started performing several international jazz festival Headliner Performances with American guitarist-multi instrumentalist Stanley Jordan. At the NAMM Show in Anaheim, California in 2016 TYCOON PERCUSSION (Thailand/USA) has released the “Gabor Dornyei Signature Drum Pack” including drum set add on percussion instruments with great global success. Also since 2016 the “VIC FIRTH Gabor Dornyei Signature Sticks” are in production and available from Gabor’s website. (Shop Menu) In 2017 Gabor’s film at DRUMEO has been listed between the “ Top 10” together with artists such as Peter Erskine, Bernard Purdie and Billy Cobham amongst others. Gabor Dornyei is worldwide endorser of: PEARL Drums, ZILDJIAN Cymbals, REMO Drumheads, VIC FIRTH Drumsticks, TYCOON Percussion, ROLAND V-Drums, HARDCASE, KICKPORT and SKYGEL.
Professional Drummer
Garry Allcock is a highly experienced and respected drummer well known as the leader of his All Stars Big Band. During the festival he can be found in accompanying trios and also leading a fine quartet with Paul Sawtell on vibes, Edgar Macias on keyboards and bassist Nick Wiltshire.
Professional Drummer
Gary Astridge, a sincere and dedicated Ringo fan from childhood and the world’s leading authority on Ringo’s Beatles era gear. Gary originally launched ringosbeatlekits.com back in 2006 as a gift to drum enthusiasts and collectors everywhere. His goal was to help others make more informed decisions when collecting and researching Ringo Starr and his Beatles associated instruments. For years he’s conducted photo forensics, researched books and articles, visited websites, viewed videos, conducted interviews and compiled his findings on a site that has become the primary resource for Ringo enthusiasts, collectors and fans. All of this work was done for no reward other than the satisfaction of helping others. In 2012 things changed for Gary when The Grammy Museum in LA announced a major exhibit honoring the unparalleled career of Sir Richard Starkey, aka Ringo Starr. They would host displays featuring memorabilia from Ringo’s long and storied career. There would be stage clothing, documents, awards, photographs, art, music AND DRUMS, amazing, beautiful, iconic, goose-bump-inducing Ringo drums! “I’ve had the pleasure of watching his work with them grow over the years. You see, I met Gary at the Grammy Museum exhibit while covering it as Publisher of Classic Drummer Magazine and Director of The Classic Drummer Hall of Fame. I immediately loved the guy, and you would too. Soon his informative articles began gracing the pages of our publication and others. I’ve had the pleasure of watching his work with them grow over the years. You see, I met Gary at the Grammy Museum exhibit while covering it as Publisher of Classic Drummer Magazine and Director of The Classic Drummer Hall of Fame. I immediately loved the guy, and you would too. Soon his informative articles began gracing the pages of our publication and others. Gary’s about as solid a guy as anyone could hope to know and he’s created this site for your information and your enjoyment. There are no ads and no sponsors, just accurate, fascinating content. I hope you find it as valuable as I have and that you share it with others who also appreciate the music, equipment and persona of the one and only Ringo Starr. To quote Sir Richard himself, “Peace and Love . . . Peace and Love”. Steve Bryant Publisher, Classic Drummer Magazine
Kasabian / Rock
Ian Matthews is an English musician, best known as the drummer for the rock band Kasabian. Prior to Kasabian, Matthews played with a number of noted local Bristol bands, such as K-Passa, CCQ, and Sissi. He met Kasabian in 2001 before the band were signed when they were recording demos in Bristol. It was from these early sessions Matthews recorded with them came the single “Processed Beats“. He also played on “Butcher Blues” and “Club Foot” from Kasabian’s self-titled debut album. He also overdubbed an extra drum track over the single version of “Cutt Off”, and recorded the drums to the B-side “Beneficial Herbs”. He was asked to tour with them in April 2004 and became a permanent member in April 2005. Matthews started his career as a young club/jazz drummer and when not touring or recording with Kasabian, he often plays small jazz/funk gigs in and around Bristol. He has recorded with Bristol artist James Morton’s Porkchop on Don’t You Worry ‘Bout That album.[1] He cites Mitch Mitchell, Tony Williams and Buddy Rich as his strongest drumming influences.[2] In 2015, Matthews joined with Al Murray, Keith Keough, Stuart Warmington and Al Kitching in founding the British Drum Company.
Jazz / Big Band
Ian first began to play drums at the age of 9, inspired by his two uncles who also play drums, Steve and Carl Palmer. He spent many years under the tutelage of Malcolm Garrett who he truly believes is one of the finest drummers ever. Malcolm can be found honing the skills of many fine, young drummers at Birmingham Conservatoire, one of the UK’s leading music schools. Ian’s formative years were spent as drummer with the Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra (MYJO) under the direction of Dr John Ruddick MBE. John Ruddick developed the talents of many young musicians including drummers Pete Cater, Neil Bullock and the late Chris Dagley. Other notable ex-members include Mark Nightingale, the Arguelles brothers and Martin Williams. Ian performed all around the world with this group, including appearances at the Montreaux Jazz Festival, the International Association of Jazz Educators’ Conference in Toronto and a concert at Disneyland, Orlando. MYJO were prolific winners of the BBC Big Band competition. He won two awards as a young member of this group; the Kenny Clare award and the Musicians’ Union Young Musician of the Year. In the early 1990s, Ian started his own contemporary jazz quintet along with trumpeter Guy Barker, saxophonist Dave O’Higgins, pianist David Newton and bassist Alec Dankworth. They played many shows around the UK and recorded at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London. During his formative years as a musician in the 90’s Ian was fortunate to study with the great drummer Joe Morello in New York. To this day, Joe is regarded as one of the world’s finest technical virtuosos in the art of drumming. Back in the UK, Ian continued as a sideman in many groups and ensembles and have had the opportunity to perform with many notable instrumentalists and writers including but not limited to Randy Brecker, Ray Russell, Martin Taylor, Mo Foster, Johnny Thirkell, Mike Clark, Bobby Shew, Rob McConnell, Georgie Fame, Alan Price, Gerard Kenny, Leo Sayer, Roy Wood, Salena Jones, Nigel Kennedy, The Climax Blues Band, Jane McDonald, Stedman Pearson and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO). He played in saxophonist Alan Skidmore’s jazz group for a few years and appeared on three albums on ITM Records; Live at the Berlin Philharmonic Hall (along with Georgie Fame), Impressions of Coltrane and a double album Naima featured myself on one side and the legendary British drummer Tony Levin on the other. This turned out to be Tony’s last ever recording. In addition to this work, Ian co-founded the hugely successful series of concerts ‘The World’s Greatest Drummer’ in honour of the man known by this title, Buddy Rich. These shows were originally the brainchild of his friend, the late Jon Brookes of British band The Charlatans and Ian himself. Premiering in 2007, these concerts have featured some of the world’s most famous drummers including Steve Gadd, Steve Smith, Keith Carlock & Benny Greb. Ian is based in London and aside from music he has two other passions, aviation and running.
Session / Educator
Jeff Davenport is a UK based professional drummer and is currently a Demonstrator for Remo Drumheads. From working his way up from roadie, to drum tech and then educator, Jeff has also been a rep for Sonor Drums and helped manage clinic events for famous drummers.
Professional Drummer
Lloyd Ryan is an English drummer and educator. He has been described as “a specialist in the big band style of drumming”. He was also a support act to Buddy Rich at the Lewisham Jazz Festival in 1986. He is best known for his work as a session musician and for having taught Phil Collins, one of the world’s most famous drummers and best-selling music artists. Collins has credited Ryan with teaching him the basic drum rudiments. Active since the 1960s, he has worked with Tony Christie, Matt Monro, Brotherhood of Man, The New Seekers, Tommy Cooper, Bobby Davro, Gene Vincent and P.J. Proby. Ryan has also led his own big band since the 1980s and released his first big band album in 2012. In addition to Collins, other students who have become successful professional drummers include John Coghlan, Keef Hartley, Derrick McKenzie of Jamiroquai, Nick Simms of Cornershop, Graham Broad and Ralph Salmins. In British professional wrestling, Ryan is also well known as having been the manager and spokesman of masked heel Kendo Nagasaki. He appeared in this capacity intermittently for All-Star Wrestling and LDN Wrestling from 1990 (when he replaced the recently deceased “Gorgeous” George Gillette) until 2007 when he and Nagasaki (kayfabe) fell out.
Educator / Technique
Martin Ranscombe is highly regarded for his vast knowledge and innovative approach to drumming education, particularly when it comes to relaxed technique and injury issues for drummers at all levels. Whether you be a professional, ‘seasoned campaigner’ or beginner, he can help you achieve your full potential as a player. If nothing else, you’ll end up with a very relaxed and efficient playing technique! Martin has been featured in many global industry publications and online resources and is known for his ‘no-nonsense’ approach to all aspects of playing this wonderful instrument – from solving technique issues, to mastering different styles, kit set up and even tuning.
Orchestral / Jazz
With over 25 years of professional performing and 20 years teaching, the PDC’s Matt Green has the experience and knowledge which is needed for every aspect of playing. Matt has extensive experience working as a performer and still actively performs in the orchestral, rock, pop, jazz and world music scene which has equipped him with the necessary skills and makes him one of the most versatile tutors around. Matt has the necessary experience to teach all levels and abilities having previously taught in many schools and colleges. With his many years of experience in percussion teaching, Matt has developed various methods that makes learning fun, exciting and inspiring. Matt Green began his musical training at the age of three. At sixteen he attended Colchester Institute School of Music to study A Levels and later a BA Hons Degree, on the way winning competitions for solo and ensemble playing. Matt obtained a place to study at Birmingham Conservatoire, where he gained a Post Graduate Diploma in Performance with Distinction. During his education, Matthew was a member of the Britten-Pears Orchestra for six seasons where he held the principal timpani chair for five of them. Being as prolific at the back of the orchestra as behind a drum kit, Matt is also in demand to perform with premier Big Bands and Jazz ensembles in and around the Midlands/London and in the studio recording for rock/pop artists. Matt is working extensively in the UK, Europe and further a field playing with such orchestras/ensembles as City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, C18th Concert Orchestra, Northern Chamber Orchestra, Milton Keynes City Orchestra, Birmingham Opera, Birmingham Contemporary Music Group, Armonico Consort, Royal Northern Sinfonia, Nash Ensemble, Endymion Ensemble, The Bach Choir to name a few. Theatre experience includes the Royal Shakespeare Company, The Globe, Talking Birds and West End productions Jesus Christ Superstar, Abba The Show and Thriller Live. Matt has a passion for world music which has lead him to work with such artists as Ravi Shankar, collaborating between Eastern and Western musicians, UK’s leading nasheed group SHAAM and on the west coast of Ireland’s folk scene. In 2016, Matt was invited to play at the Queen’s 90th Birthday Thanksgiving Service at St.Paul’s Cathedral. He is also in demand as a workshop leader allowing him to perform to audiences across Europe and beyond. Matt’s commitment to education has also led him to coach on many summer music courses and he continues to give drum clinics throughout the UK.
Professional Drummer
Michael first played the drums when he was given a toy drum kit at two years old. Since then, he has achieved his Grade 8 and has toured Worcestershire with Reggae, Punk and Jazz bands at venues such as Birmingham Town Hall. Michael loves to play swing/jazz, latin, funk and fusion, and has been influenced by many drummers, past and present, including Yussef Dayes and Mark Guiliana. Despite enjoying an eclectic mix of genres and the individual styles of particular drummers, Buddy Rich, Anika Nilles and Ulysses Owens Jr. all stand out as particular favourites. Michael is influenced by the styles of many different drummers, using those influences in his own playing. Through music and drumming specifically, he would love to travel the world and gain experience on cruise ships and at festivals like Glastonbury and Lollapalooza. He is currently part of the Royal Birmingham Junior Conservatoire Jazz department which is greatly developing his skills as a musician and a drummer.
Shawn Mendes / Session
Mike Sleath is a drummer and percussionist, who’s energy, creativity and style has seen him perform all over the world on some of the biggest stages. After spending over a decade globe trotting with an array of different established artists, Mike has found a home in the last 5 years as the full time touring drummer for Grammy nominated artist, Shawn Mendes. “Deftly backing Mendes on the road is Mike Sleath, whose powerful energy has driven the singer’s live show since 2015.” Modern Drummer Nov. 2019 Having performed with many artists including John Mayer, Miley Cyrus, Camila Cabello, Khalid and Zedd to name a few, Mike has made a name for himself on the world stage. Mike has been featured in The Modern Drummer, Rolling Stone, Drumeo, Canadian Musician and many interviews and music podcasts. Notably, Mike has brought his passion and enthusiasm to performances at the Grammy’s, VMA’s, SNL, AMA’s, Ellen, Jimmy Fallon, James Corden, Rock In Rio as well as legendary venues Wembley Stadium, The Royal Albert Hall, and Madison Square Garden. Mike has performed on record for the rock remix of Katy Perry’s smash hit “I Kissed a Girl” as well as Shawn Mendes’ releases “MTV Unplugged” and “Live at Madison Square Garden”. http://www.mikesleathdrums.com/
Van Morrison / Session
Neal has been a first-call studio session musician since the mid-80s. His feel, sound, and ability to play many different styles of music has led to recording and touring with a hugely diverse group of artists, including Van Morrison, James Morrison, Paul McCartney, Ray Charles, Annie Lennox, Joan Armatrading, Beverley Craven, Barefoot Servants (with Leland Sklar), Gang of Four, Ultravox, Mike and the Mechanics, Everything But the Girl, Gil Evans, Michel Legrand, Elmer Bernstein, TV shows American Idol, Friends, X-Factor, movies Star Wars – Return of the Jedi, Looking for Eric, Man Down (to be released soon), and London shows “Hair” and the Carole King show, “Beautiful”.
Tiny Giant / Educator
Paul’s latest and most exciting project is live drummer for Tiny Giant. Former Pure Reason Revolution band mate Chloe Alper, teamed up with multi-instrumentalist and MOBO and Grammy nominated sound engineer Mat Collis to form ‘Tiny Giant’. Tiny Giant have released 3 singles via Black Pig Records and are set to release their debut album. Tiny Giant have been championed by BBC Introducing and Music Week, played on numerous National Radio stations, reviewed in many publications including NME and Vanity Fair and nominated ‘Best New Comers’ in Classic Rock Magazine readers poll. Paul and Tiny Giant have gained a formidable reputation for their live performances, which include AYL Festival, OXJAM, Reading+Leeds Festivals, and UK tour support for Jane Getter. Paul’s first career break came with electro-pop artist Mr Fogg in 2006. During his time playing for Mr Fogg, Paul had his first opportunities to play at major UK festivals, venues and live on national radio. Soon after Paul was noticed by Jon Courtney of Pure Reason Revolution (PRR). Before long, Paul became a full time member of the progressive-electronic-rock outfit, touring the UK, Europe and the US. The act were signed to Sony/BMG, and their career saw them release four albums, the likes of which gathered much critical acclaim. In 2011 PRR disbanded and Paul was asked to take up drum duties for Scroobius Pip, one of the UK’s leading spoken word/hip hop exponents. With Pip and the ‘Distraction Pieces Band’, Paul enjoyed the success of sold out tours in the UK and Ireland, extensive European tours, and highly anticipated appearances at some of the UK and Ireland’s largest festivals. In the autumn of 2014 Paul was called upon to tour around the UK and Ireland with B.Dolan, a highly respected American hip hop artist, being released on Scroobius Pip’s own record label ‘Speech Development Records’. Paul continues to work with Scroobius Pip, B.Dolan and other artists associated with Speech Development records. In 2013 Paulbecame a member of dual-drummer alt-rock super group; Red Kite, fronted by ex-Cooper Temple Clause guitarist and singer Dan Fisher. As well as gaining a reputation as an exciting and ferocious live band, Red Kite released their debut album ‘Songs For Crow’ in 2014 to high regard. During 2014 Paul had the opportunity to play prestigious venue shows and major folk festival appearances with BBC Award winning folk artist Lisa Knapp, demonstrating Paul’s ability to adapt to his musical situation. Paul has a keen love of Jazz and Big Band and regularly plays with Jazz acts such as, Reading University Big Band, The Tomcats, Cousin Mary and many more.
Professional Drummer
Unique, outrageous, high impact, stick juggling, choreographed freestyle drumming…. Opening Entertainment doesn’t come any better than The Percussion Theatre performance ensemble. Energy, precision and love for drumming ooze out in every performance. The level of skill and visual impact is only bettered by their ability to entertain. Percussion Theatre performances consists of freestyle drumming, stick throwing, tricks, dancing and jaw dropping uniformity all while drumming along to fun well-known top 10 hits. The Ultra Violet segment of the show silences the room with glowing sticks and props combined with more awe inspiring drumming and movement. The Percussion Theatre’s team of performers have been handpicked from across the UK and have a wealth of experience in careers performing at prestigious venues and events worldwide, the members have performed at everything from London Olympic ceremony to drumming with the Rolling Stones.
Jazz / Big Band
Pete Cater “A gifted and versatile drummer, at home in any context”, (Rough Guide To Jazz) Pete Cater ended 2015 by being named in the top 8 jazz drummers in the world today in Rhythm magazine’s annual popularity poll (the other 7 were all from the USA). It was a fitting conclusion to a year including the 20th anniversary concert of the Pete Cater Big Band at London’s Cadogan Hall, artist in residence for the Premier Drum Company at Music China in Shanghai, a mainstage appearance at the 2015 London Drum Show,an appearance alongside Steve Gadd, Ian Palmer and Steve White at the World’s Greatest Drummer show and the launch of Pete’s new band, The Ministry of Jazz. Pete Cater has been involved with drums for his entire life. Movie footage exists of him hand drumming aged barely 12 months and the innate talent cannot be missed. His musical tastes matured similarly early, and courtesy of his Dad’s record collection he was, by age 5, already a devotee of Joe Morello, Buddy Rich and Louie Bellson. Also active in education Pete is a faculty member at the London Centre of Contemporary Music and appears at drum events throughout the UK and beyond as well as being an in demand private teacher.
World Percussion
Pete Lockett is one of the most versatile multi-percussionists currently in the world, having immersed himself in percussion and drums from every part of the globe. The wide range of artists he’s worked with reflects the diversity of his playing. He has recorded and or toured with: Björk, Peter Gabriel, Robert Plant, Dido, Bill Bruford, Jeff Beck, Steve Gadd, David Torn, Pandit Jasraj, Hariprasad Chaurasia, Zohar Fresco, Vikku Vinayakram, Selva Ganesh, Ustad Zakir Hussain, The Verve, Steve Smith, Chris Potter, John Spencer Blues Explosion, David Holmes, Ganesh Kumaresh, Michael Nyman, Natacha Atlas, Texas, Trans-Global Underground, Bedlam, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Dave Weckl, Eric Moore, Thomas Lang, Jon Hassell, Alex Acuna, Russ Miller, Nelly Furtado, Mike Mainieri, Phil Manzanera, David Arnold, Evelyn Glennie, Simon Phillips, Lee Scratch Perry, Primal Scream, Andrea Corr, Jojo Mayer, Kai Eckhardt, Pedro Abrunhosa, Schlomo, Ed Mann, Michael Shrieve, Edwyn Collins, Damien Rice, Jarvis Cocker, George Brooks, Trevor Jackson, Craig Armstrong, John Bergamo, Kadri Gopalnath , Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden), Pandit Shankar Ghosh, TVG, Bernard Butler, David Mcalmont, Metro Voices, Mick Karn, London Sinfonietta, Natasha / Daniel Bedingfield, Euphoria, Catherine Bott, Pandit Sharda Sahai, Kodo, Playgroup, Taufiq Quereshi, U Shrinivas, Pandit Anindo Chatterjee, Roopkumar Rathod, Niladri Kumar, Rajesh Mandolin, Suga Babes, Hughes De Courson, Ronan Keating, Nitin Sawhney, Peter Murphy (Bauhaus) Evan Dando, Adrian Sherwood, On-U-Sound, Kula Shaker, Afro Celt Sound System, Vanessa-Mae, Horacio El Negro Hernandez, Errol Brown, Rory Gallagher, Gary Husband, Baba Sissoko, Carlo Rizzo, Dave Dobbyn, Vinny Appice, Denny Seiwell, Pet Shop Boys, Beth Orton, Mark Schulman, Martina Topley Bird, Steve Jansen, Mick Karn (Japan) Shankar Mahedevan, Little Axe, Anubrata Chatterjee, Bikram Ghosh, Pam Chowhan, Ghatam Suresh, Dino Merlin, Doug Wimbish, Ronu Majumdar, Hari Haran, Amaan & Ayaan Ali Khan, Amy Winehouse, Mel C, The Players, Junior Delgado, Will Calhoun, Zoro, Benny Greb, Johnny Rabb, Steve Sidelynk, The Aloof, Dom Famularo, David Toop, Lowell Fulson, Joji Hirota, Skip Macdonald, A R Rahman, Archive, Luke Vibert, Eumir Deodato, Michael Barker, Derek Roddy, Andy Gangadeen, Julian Lloyd Webber, Steve White, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Bandish, Jim Kilpatrick, BBC concert orchestra, Seb Rochford, Jonas Hellborg, Youth of Killing Joke, Catriona MacDonald, Reshma, Niladri Kumar, Aziz Ibrahim (Stone Roses/Simply Red) DJ Judge Jules, French band INTIK, Elefantes, Andy Wright, Farida Khanum, Qadir Shaggan, Attullah Essakhelvi, Paul Heard (M People), Hands On’semble, Brenda Navarrete & many more! Pete has worked in virtually every field of music conceivable, both live and in the studio. From pop and rock, to free jazz and the classical avant garde. From traditional Carnatic and Hindustani music of North and South India to traditional Japanese taiko drumming. Straight blues, funk and rock drumming to collaborations with classical, folk, ethnic and experimental musicians. One of Pete’s main calling cards is his ability to play traditional instruments out of their normal cultural setting and make them sit within the music comfortably. He has performed live at festivals and concert halls all over the world.
Professional Drummer
Peter ‘Dougal’ Butler began working with The Who as a roadie in mid ’67. He became close buddies with the drummer, Keith Moon from 1967 -1977. Dougal then became Moonies personal assistant where they saw each other virtually every day and even shared accommodation in the U.K and U.S.A.
Speed Specialist
Riccardo Merlini, Italian drummer, fastest hands on the planet, graduated at Conservatory, student of Mike Mangini (Dream Theater) in Boston. Teacher, clinician, Riccardo is also one of the world fastest drummers who discovered and developed the fastest hands technique for a human being reaching 400BPM with single stroke roll. Riccardo shows his skills everyday putting his personal style on any beat, groove and song reaching very high approvals on every social media platform like instagram, Tik Tok (with more than a million view in just 1 video), Facebook and Youtube. Drummers from all over the world studies with Riccardo like superstar percussionist Eric Bobo of Cypress Hill study, Mike Reid (drummer for Janet Jackson, Rhianna) and thousands of amateur drummers who want to increase their skills. Riccardo is not only a drum teacher, you can also follow his live performances and Clinic tour around the world. https://www.riccardomerlini.com/index.html
Loreena McKennitt / Session
Rob Brian is a busy UK session & touring drummer who also performs drum masterclasses & clinics for DW Drums and Vulcan Cymbals. Robert was introduced to drumming at an early age by his father, Ray Brian, who was a session drummer in the 1960s. His father played him a video of Buddy Rich which Rob described as a “defining moment of his musical education.” Rob has worked with many diverse artists such as Loreena McKennitt, Goldfrapp, Peter Gabriel, Laura Pausini, Miles Kane, Simple Minds, Siouxsie Sioux, Black Box, Clara Ponty, Michel Polnareff, Andy Partridge & Colin Moulding, Modern English, David Rhodes, Herbie Flowers, Hugh Cornwell, Charlie Jones, Jason Rebello, Derek Nash, Innes Sibun, Andy Sheppard, Coati Mundi, Alan Barnes, Roger Cook, Kenny Lynch. In 2018 he recorded tracks at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios for Canadian singer Loreena McKennitt’s new album Lost Souls. Then later that year he started the Lost Souls world tour with Loreena and the band which continued throughout 2019. Also in 2018 Rob recorded again with Laura Pausini for the album Fatti Sentire which went on to become a multi-Platinum selling record. The album also won a Grammy at the Latin Music Awards, Rob’s first Grammy winning album performance. In 2018 he signed his endorsement with the Italian company Vulcan Cymbals and uses them exclusively on all of his recordings, tours and drum clinics. In 2017 he recorded sessions for the band Goldfrapp which ended up being released on their album Silver Eye, one of them became the single Everything is Never Enough. In 2016 he was nominated for a Grammy Award with Italian singer Laura Pausini for her album Simili, which became a triple platinum selling record. The single ‘”Lato destro del cuore” went gold in Italy and became a top 10 single. Throughout 2015 Rob played on sessions in Belgium for French music sensation Michel Polnareff and the single L’Homme en Rouge gets released later that year. The rest of the sessions would appear on the album Enfin! in 2018. In 2013 Rob starts endorsing DW Drums and has an hour long show of drumming & interviews on the online drum teaching site Drum Channel in America. Also in 2013 Rob plays 2 sold out shows with Siouxsie Sioux at Yoko Ono’s Meltdown Festival at The Royal Festival Hall in London. In September 2008, Rob played on the Siouxsie Sioux DVD, Finale: The Last Mantaray and More Show recorded at Club KoKo in London which was released in May 2009. It charted at no. 4 in the BBC Radio 1 Music DVD Chart on the 24 May 2009. He was the live drummer for the Siouxsie Sioux Mantaray world Tour.
Professional Drummer
Russell Gilbrook is the latest drummer for the British rock band, Uriah Heep. Over the last few years Gilbrook has been establishing himself on the UK clinic tour scene. He has supported artists such as Greg Bissonette and completed a tour with Liberty DeVitto.
Mad Scientist / Soloist
Scott Pellegrom is known throughout the drumming community as the “mad scientist.” His playing as a soloist and band leader exudes creativity, from surprising ideas to blinding hand speed, using found objects to pulling unconventional sounds from conventional instruments. Videos of his hyper-creative playing can be seen on Drumeo, the Dream Cymbals and PDP/DW Drums social media channels, Scott’s Instagram (@scottpellegrom), and numerous other places around the web. Incorporating elements of drum and bass, jungle, and fearless improvisation into his playing, this “drummer’s drummer” defies expectation and genre, whether it’s playing jazz standards or today’s most experimental music. In March 2020, Modern Drummer recognized Scott as one of the top five soloists in the world. https://www.scottpellegrom.com/
Fusion / Metal
Siemy Di is a London (UK) based drummer/percussionist. What he loves about drums is the challenge of combining the animal and the intellectual aspects of it. Siemy loves the physicality of playing – the sweating and the pounding of the drums but is also drawn to the intellectual side of exploring rhythm in a complex manner. Throughout his drumming career, Siemy has had the privilege to play with the likes of Roy Ayers, David Bowie, Terry Bozzio, Mofro, S Club 7, Jimmy Sommerville, Zucchero and Emma Bunton (Baby Spice/Spice Girls). He was also invited to join the infamous African Jazz All-Stars and Master Drummers of Africa which gave him exposure to some of Africa’s most beloved talent. With his fusion band Siemy di System, they won the ‘Best Live Band Award’ for the Classic Rock Society (UK) in 2004. They also performed at Queen Elizabeth Hall, South Bank, London (UK) in 2006 supporting Tony Allen. Since 2012 Siemy has also been performing with a gothic-pop band, Mothlite (Kscope, Visible Noise).
Session / Morrissey
Spike T Smith is a British professional freelance session drummer, artist, performer, musician and songwriter. He’s spent many years working internationally with some of the world’s finest artists and musicians, including Morrissey, punk legends The Damned, Killing Joke, New York Dolls, Steve Ignorant/Crass, Sona Fariq and Sacrilege, to name just a few. Spike has worked with some of the most respected music producers on the planet, including: Youth: The Verve; Pink Floyd; Paul McCartney; Crowded House; Black Grape; The Charlatans; Killing Joke. Jerry Finn: Green Day; Morrissey; Blink 182; Rancid; Sum 41; Pennywise. Alex Silva: Manic Street Preachers; Suede; Herbert Grönemeyer; Sona Fariq. Jagz Kooner: Primal Scream; Oasis; Garbage; Massive Attack; Kasabian; Reverend and The Makers. Andy Sneep: Megadeth; Saxon; Testament; Exodus; Arch Enemy; Opeth; Accept; Amon Amarth; Nevermore. Harvey Birrell: Therapy; Buzzcocks; Crass; Snuff; Senseless Things; Jolt; Alien Sex Fiend; Silverfish; Flesh For Lulu. Brendon Lynch: Paul Weller; Primal Scream; Ocean Colour Scene. Originally from Wales, Spike has played drums and performed since he was 13 years old. He’s been described by Rhythm magazine “As the British version of American session heavy-weight, Josh Freese”. Spike has a wide range of music styles and genres, and loves nothing more than being on the road touring and playing drums. www.spikesmith.com
Jazz / Educator
Known for his modern approach to jazz, technical mastery on the kit and high aptitude for rhythm and independence, Steve Lyman is emerging as one of the leading voices on the drums around the globe. Originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, Lyman moved to New York City in 2005 to study at the prestigious New School University. Lyman quickly began working with some of New York’s finest musicians under the tutelage of his teacher and mentor, drummer Ari Hoenig. Lyman’s first major opportunity was performing with vocalist José James (with whom Lyman was an active member from 2006-2008) performing on Mr. James’s critically acclaimed album The Dreamer, which was voted #21 of the top 50 albums in 2008 (JazzTimes Magazine). As a performer, Lyman has enjoyed sharing the stage with some of the leading voices in jazz and contemporary music, including: Aaron Parks, Jon Batiste, Gilad Hekselman, Nir Felder, Julian Pollack, Chase Baird, José James, Ben van Gelder, Ben Street, Bill McHenry, George Garzone, Ralph Alessi, Logan Richardson, Jaleel Shaw, Thomas Morgan, Tyshawn Sorey, Madeline Eastman, Joe Martin, Dan Tepfer, Becca Stevens, Kris Johnson and Corey Christiansen to name a few. Lyman has also toured the world extensively as a performer. In Europe, Lyman has performed throughout the UK, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, playing such venues as the BBC Studios London, The Blue Note Milan, and the New Morning Paris. In the United States, Lyman has performed at the renown Blue Note and Smalls jazz clubs regularly, both as a sideman and as a leader. As an educator, Lyman has led workshops and masterclasses throughout the US and is becoming a first-call international clinician. In 2018 Lyman led a drum clinic tour in the UK—teaching to hundreds of drummers around the regions of London, Wales, Bristol and at Universities and music festivals throughout the greater UK. Upcoming clinics include: Argentina, Singapore as well as returning to the UK in 2020. Lyman released his debut record Revolver in 2013 which featured all original compositions and received 5 Stars from All About Jazz Magazine. Lyman is also the author of the book A New Approach to Odd-Times for Drumset published by Mel Bay Publications (2013). In 2019 Steve filmed on online lesson for Drumeo and tourned the US and EU with saxophonist Chase Baird. Endorsements: Craviotto Drum Company Drums, Istanbul Mehmet Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, Polynome Metronome App and Reflexx Practice Pads. Steve Lyman also serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Jazz Drumset Studies at the University of Utah and lives in Salt Lake City.
Professional Drummer
Sticky Wicket is now known as the UK’s No1 Swing Drummer, but he didn’t start out on that path, he had a varied musical career before settling into the Swing Groove and forming the Swing Orchestra in 1999.
Styx / Clinician
Todd Sucherman continues to be one of the world’s most in demand drummers and educators. While recording and touring the world with the multi platinum rock band STYX for the last twenty four years, he’s managed to balance a schedule of recording sessions, masterclasses, clinics, and creating the enormously successful “Rock Drumming Masterclass” for Drumeo. Todd has been recognized by his peers winning many Modern Drummer Magazine Reader’s Poll awards through the years taking top honors in the categories of Rock Drummer, Progressive Rock Drummer, Classic Rock Drummer, Live Drummer, Clinician, Educational DVD, Recorded performance, and multiple placements in other categories. In 2020 after playing drums for forty nine years, he released his first solo record, “Last Flight Home.” Todd Sucherman grew up in a musical family. His father, Arnold J. Sucherman was a doctor by day, and a big band drummer by night. He was the house drummer at the famed Chez Parre’ in Chicago through the 1940s and 50’s. During that time he worked with Lena Horne, Sammy Davis Jr., Sophie Tucker, Joe E. Lewis, Jack Benny and countless others. While on the road, at a gig in New Orleans, Arnold met a young actress, Jo Seiwert, who was performing together in the same variety show. They were married and soon formed a family of their own. Paul was first (keyboards), then Joel (bass), then Todd (drums). Todd was fascinated with the drums as an infant. His father taught him to play and could read music by age five. His first paying gig was with his brothers, “The Sucherman Brothers” at age six. They continued to play together and with other musicians for years. Todd kept up with his musical studies through school and attended Berklee College of Music for one year. There he studied privately with Gary Chaffee, a world renowned educator with former students the likes of Steve Smith and Vinnie Colaiuta. In 1988, Todd returned to Chicago and quickly established himself as a first call musician in the recording scene. As an in demand player for live and session work, this led to his association with the band STYX. Todd was called in to record when Styx’s John Panozzo was ill. After John Panozzo’s untimely death, Todd’s position in the band was solidified. Twenty four years later Styx continues to play to millions of fans all over the world averaging 100 dates a year. Todd has recorded several albums with the band including “Big Bang Theory” which put the band in the top 50 on Billboard for the fourth straight decade and “The Misson” which garnered him a Modern Drummer Reader’s Poll award for “Best Recorded Performance. In-between his time with Styx he’s recorded over 1000 radio and TV spots and worked with artists diverse as Peter Cetera, Brian Culbertson, Spinal Tap, Michael Bolton, The Falling Wallendas, Eric Marienthal, Taylor Mills, Antoine Fafard, Tzan Niko and Brian Wilson (including his 2003 release with Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton and Elton John.) Todd has been an in demand clinician performing at drum festivals around the world. More accolades came with the release of the “Methods & Mechanics” DVD series (I & II) both winning multiple awards in drumming education in 2008 and 2011. In 2019, Drumeo launched “Rock Drumming Masterclass” that was wildly successful in the field of online education reaching drummers from over 60 different countries. 2020 saw Todd step out front for the first time as a singer/ songwriter with the release of “Last Flight Home” —marking new musical territory and a different landscape to explore. “Music, melodies, and the story of the lyric is what was always most important to me. I think that’s why I went in the direction I did with Last Flight Home.” Todd explains. “Having just played the challenging instrumental music of Antoine Fafard on his Borrowmean Odyssey record, I feel that scratch had been itched. So by doing this record, I wanted to see if I could pull off something I wasn’t sure that I could pull off. I found that to be frightening, challenging, and I thought that’s exactly where I should be.” Equally comfortable on the stage with STYX, playing instrumental music with Tzan Niko or Antoine Fafard, prog rock with Finally George or The Legacy Pilots, Gershwin standards with Brian Wilson, risking his life with Spinal Tap, or taking a step out front— Todd has taken his place in the Pantheon of the elite drummers/musicians in the world. Todd has appeared on records with (released or unreleased) or has performed with: Brian Wilson — Imagination, Brian Wilson On Tour (DVD), Gettin’ In Over My Head (featuring Paul McCartney, Elton John and Eric Clapton, That Lucy Old Sun (CD & DVD), Wilson Reimagines Gershwin Styx (The Mission, Greatest Hits 1 & 2, Return To Paradise, Brave New World, Arch Allies, Cyclorama, Styxworld Live, Big Bang Theory, 21st Century Live, One With Everything with the CYO, Regeneration Vol 1 & 2, Grand Illusion/Pieces of Eight Live, Live From The Orleans Arena ) Tommy Shaw (Seven Deadly Zens) Peter Cetera (One Clear Voice) Brian Culbertson (After Hours, Secrets, Somethin’ Bout Love, Come On Up) Taylor Mills (Lullagoodbye, Under the Surface) Harry Shearer (Can’t Take a Hint) Neil Zaza (Peach, Live From the Kent Stage) Antoine Fafard (Borromean Odyssey) Tzan Niko (Ascension) Derek Smalls (Smalls Change) Finally George (Life is a Killer) Legacy Pilots (Con Brio) Steve Cole (Stay Awhile, Spin) The Falling Wallendas (The Falling Wallendas, Belittle) Bob Mamet (Night and Day) Henry Kapono (Spirit Dancer, Hits) Adrian Galysh (Tone Poet) Wade Hubbard (Insanity Lane) Greg Ridley (Anthology) Michael Bolton (Only A Woman Like You) John Wetton (Welcome To Heaven) Morty Shallman (Love’s Oblivion) Vinnie Zumo (Swinging Guitar Sounds of Young America vol.3) Lee Nysted (One Word) Billy Ocean, R Kelly, Survivor, Jim Peterik, John Wetton, Joe Lynn Turner, Fareed Haque, Scott Bennett, Fyfe Dangerfield, Mike Carr, Rochelle, Steve Kolander, Nicholas Markos, Tim Cunningham, Jim Brickman, Danny Kravitz, Into the Green, Bill Dickens, Kane Robberts, and others. Live Performances: Styx, Brian Wilson, Eric Marienthal, Spinal Tap, Lawrence Gowan, Brian Culbertson, Neil Zaza, Steve Cole, Bobby Enriquez, David Hasselhoff, Dave Uhrich, Falling Wallendas, Bob Mamet, Darryl Jones, Sandy Torano, Bill Dickens, Fareed Haque, Peter White, Rick Braun, Michael McDermott, Josie Aiello, Lionel Cole, and a night at Carnegie Hall (May 2008) with Brian Wilson, Sting, James Taylor, Billy Joel and John Sebastian. https://www.toddsucherman.com/index.htm
We're always looking for talented drummers and percussionists to feature at our events
Apply to Play