DRUMS
The drum kit is the foundation of the rhythm section, it drives the energy and flow of the performance. It creates the groove that connects the performers with the audience.
EXPERIENCE
Thirteen years ago, I began learning the drums after my primary school teacher recognised my natural feel for rhythm. By the age of eighteen, I completed Trinity Classical and Jazz grades one to eight, achieving merits and distinctions. Alongside my grades, I was also part of a various intermediate youth orchestras with Merton Music Foundation where I performed bi-annually at The Royal Albert Hall. Since then, I have performed in various genres with bands throughout college and university, headlining festivals and local venues in Bristol, Bath and London.
I currently offer work as a freelance session drummer, providing live performances and studio sessions. I specialise in a variation of musical styles but focus on pop, R and B, funk, soul, dance and soft rock.
SKILLS
As a classically trained drummer, I have excellent knowledge of music theory (grade 5 passed), arrangement, improvisation, playing styles and sight reading. These skills are essential as a session musician, allowing me to quickly adapt to the demands of a session. I have extended experience performing live and in the studio with musicians, metronome and playback. This showcases my ability to integrate and collaborate effectively with a variety of musicians and requirements of any project.
I am also creating a home studio which will allow me to produce high quality drum recordings from home and send them to clients over the internet. This is perfect for smaller projects or remote collaborations and provides a efficient solution without the need to rent a studio, engineer or additional expenses.
EQUIPMENT
High quality equipment is essential as a session drummer, as it's my foundation to creating the perfect sound.
I own a Yamaha Live Custom hybrid, this drum kit is known for its exceptional sound quality and versatility making it perfect for live and studio performances. The shells are a combination of wood and a composite material which creates a punchy and well projected sound.
Additionally, my Jost Nickel Beach Wood snare drum has natural characteristics that delivers a softer attack but still with a blend of depth and brightness. The snares are tightened and the drum head is tuned high to add more high end tones and a satisfying crack.
I also own a variety of cymbals to suit different occasions, including a china cymbal, sizzle cymbal and both jazz and harsher sounding options. I enjoy using my Zildjian 21" jazz ride which provides a touch of high ed sparkle to my sound. Likewise, my UFIP hi hats are also made to accentuate the articulation needed for styles like funk and jazz. Each cymbal is chosen carefully to compliment the genre and my playing style.
Overall, my signature sound is bright and finely tuned to produce a crisp and punchy attack with clarity and articulation. The Yamaha Live Custom Hybrid is designed to cut through mix while still maintaining it's rich and dynamic body.