Here's how a bit of perseverance, a lot of practice and a few inspirational words from my dad led to a music career playing the drums.
I started learning to play the drums at the age of 10. My dad taught me and he was a very talented Jazz drummer who remains my inspiration. He was a great teacher but couldn’t read drum music so I learned by ear: listening and playing along to lots of music. I also watched and studied lots of drummers on VHS tapes (remember them!). I would have loved to have access to the amount of drumming content available now on YouTube and elsewhere online!
I studied music at Great Yarmouth College and was awarded a distinction in my drumming performance and a B-Tech National Diploma in music. After college, I gained years of experience playing both live and on studio recordings. I’ve played in many bands and musical projects, working with some of the finest musicians in the country.
I have toured the UK extensively with my brother and our band The Doggett Brothers. Over a 10 year period with our band we enjoyed much success on the UK soul scene with sell out shows at The Jazz Cafe London. We’ve released three albums in that time, also releasing albums exclusively in Japan.
My brother, Greg, and I have been privileged to work with many talented musicians and singers. We featured vocals from Kenny Thomas on our album ‘Colours’. Kenny released his hit single ‘Thinking About Your Love’ back in the 1990s. We also worked with DJ pioneer Trevor Nelson and supported US legend Alexander O’Neil on his UK tour.
I am currently recording drums on new music for The Doggett Brothers coming out this summer and in May I performed live in London with Rock Legend Justin Hawkins (The Darkness) and singer songwriter Desiree Mishoe for Sky Arts TV.
A few years ago I suffered a bad back injury leading to cancelled shows and rehabilitation. Currently I am doing a lot more teaching, producing and writing dance music. Teaching drums is a big passion of mine and I want to pass on my knowledge and experience to anyone who, for whatever reason, is inspired to play the drums. Whether you have always wanted to learn and have finally found the time, or you already have some experience but feel you need some guidance with your technique and all round playing, l can help!
My approach to teaching is more of a coaching style method. In addition to teaching formal music lessons, I have also been employed in more of a mentor/drum teacher role to help support students with learning difficulties. I have also worked for the Voice Cloud project, providing creative singing and percussion workshops for disabled adults.
My teaching style focuses a lot on the practical side of drumming along with an introduction to reading drum music, breaking down and simplifying all elements of drum notation, working through exercises from some great teaching assets I have discovered.
In my lessons I will often jump on the kit to demonstrate visually and explain anything to help the student grasp complex grooves. I find that this teaching approach works best rather than trying to just explain everything sitting down from a book. Learning the drums should never be dull!
My dad would always say to me and my brothers when growing up...
“Never let anyone dictate your destiny.”
I have never forgotten those wise words from my dad who also taught me how to play drums. Carrying on my dad’s legacy is something that motivates me and I take pride in passing on my skills, passion and knowledge as a drum coach and look forward to hearing from you soon!
First lesson half price!
30 minute lesson for just £10!
