THE PLAN!
My goal is to provide lessons that achieve the goals of the student; whether that is to play their favourite AC/DC song, achieve their next grading certificate, or learning a cool groove so that they can jam with their siblings.
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When going through my own studies I had a number of different teachers. I observed different methods of teaching and approaches to learning, and after teaching in both mainstream and SEN schools myself, I crafted my own comprehensive way of teaching drums that is relaxed and easy for students. It all has to be about fun and inspiration. If you don't have either of those, the learning is impossible!
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I take this job very seriously and the student's needs always trump academics. You can't rush proper achievement.
WHAT MAKES ME QUALIFIED?
I've played the drums for nineteen years and have taught for eight of those. I've taught both privately and in schools (independent, mainstream and SEN), which has given me a breadth of experience across the many challenges that learners both young and old face.
For my academic qualifications - aside from things like grades in both drums and music theory, I’ve achieved BTEC National Diplomas in both Music Performance and Technologies, as well as a Bachelor Of Arts in Professional Musicianship.
Professionally, I have toured with UK award-winning country artists Alan Finlan, Danny Mcmahon and Lily Garland, UK hip hop artist Parv and rnb covers artists Guilt Trippin' (to name a few), as well as a permanent member in the progressive metal band Lost in Thought.
I also play regularly as first percussionist with the HMS Sultan Royal Navy Band, and have played professionally as a pit/theatre percussionist for the last ten years. I’ve been lucky enough to have played scores such as Les Miserables and Little Shop Of Horrors. I've also worked a number of professional pantomimes such as Jack & The Beanstalk and Beauty & The Beast up and down the country.
HDS Principal Teacher Sam, whilst on tour in Sweden with Danny Mcmahon, 2019.
A REWARDING CHALLENGE!
Every instrument poses challenges to the one learning it. Drums is no stranger to this with both coordination, musicality and will-power being tested! However, it can be the most rewarding past time once something 'clicks'.
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All students are encouraged to form bands in their own time, and will always be welcomed to the tutor's own performances to observe and learn.
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Parents are also more than welcome (more likely encouraged!) to sit in in the lessons to be involved with the student's learning and experiences.
