Drummer. Educator. Musician.
Gary began his professional career — as a performer and an educator — in 1989.
Drums were a passion from his early childhood… He received his first full drum kit, aged 15, to prevent any further wear and tear on the arm rests of his mother’s precious sofa! And drumming went on to become Gary’s sole lifetime occupation.
Drumming has taken Gary throughout Europe to perform. He has played at some extraordinarily memorable gigs — such as events hosted by the Renault Formula One team — and at the stunning Blenheim Palace. Gary performs at drum clinics and promotional sessions for The Zildjian Cymbal Company: he is proud that this world-famous manufacturer has endorsed him since 1994. He also enjoys a long-standing relationship with Sonor Drums. Gary’s performing highlights include working with members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and at a family event for Ringo Starr.
Gary’s students have included racing drivers, surgeons, artists, chefs, journalists, accountants, as well as countless students at school and university. While many enjoy drumming just for fun, some have gained entry into institutions such as the Bristol Institute of Modern Music, and the Academy of Contemporary Music. Others have played at Fairport’s Cropredy Convention and the Cornbury Festival (both held annually in Oxfordshire). And, in 2000, one of Gary’s students reached the first-ever national final of Young Drummer Of The Year — the last 12 of more than 400 entrants.
Whenever possible, Gary will invite a professional musician to join a group of his students at a master class… where he will join his guest in giving demonstrations, and ask them to talk about their life behind the drum kit. For example, world-renowned performers such as Dave Mattacks (Paul McCartney / George Harrison / Elton John / XTC / Jethro Tull / Fairport Convention, etc.) Mark Mondesir (Bryan Ferry / Courtney Pine / Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull), Steve White (Paul Weller / The Who / Oasis), and Neal Wilkinson (Paul McCartney / Van Morrison / Joan Armatrading / James Morrison) have shared their invaluable expertise. Inspiring stuff for wannabe drummers…
One of Gary’s current students is Christian Horner, Team Principal of the Red Bull Racing Formula One team. Christian, among so many of Gary’s students, certainly endorses Gary’s maxim: that — whoever you are, and whatever you set out to do — it’s Fun When You Drum!
Gary can give you drumming lessons at:
• his studio
• your homeAt his North Oxfordshire studio, Gary is fully equipped with all the things that you will need for lessons, courtesy of some of the world’s most prestigious percussion companies. He has written his own syllabus for learning, and has produced a drum tuition DVD in conjunction with drummer Paul Francis (Bill Wyman / Jack Bruce / Steve Harley / Albert Lee).
If you already have your own drums, it’s perfectly reasonable that you might want your lessons to be on your kit. Absolutely! Why not? Gary will be pleased to visit you at your kit’s location — please discuss this with him.
Wherever Gary teaches you, your lessons will cover everything you need to learn, in order for you to become a proficient drummer. Whether for fun, for relaxation, to neutralise stress, or to perform to an audience.
It’s well documented that drumming can enhance your well-being — by improving your circulation, and by lowering your blood pressure. Drumming is very beneficial for the heart: every time you drum, you are giving your four limbs a healthy workout.
Gary teaches any age, stage or style — from absolute beginners to established professionals. As a drummer, you never stop learning and developing. But you will always have fun when you drum!
Know anyone who would enjoy some drum lessons? Why not give them Fun When You Drum! lesson vouchers?
A creative and inspired gift — whatever the occasion!
Contact Gary to arrange this.
Gary’s Fun When You Drum! workshops are ideal for everyone… absolutely no musical knowledge nor experience is necessary.
Whether your workplace is looking for an intriguing out-of-office team-building away day; or whether your social group or organisation fancies a creative — and fun — day out… come and be a percussionist for a couple of hours. Or for half a day. Or even for a whole day!
Think you don’t have a musical bone in your body? Gary will be delighted to prove you wrong. Whether you’re five or 105! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you’ll find one!
Gary will provide an assortment of quality instruments, and will teach you how to apply tempo, rhythm, control and dynamics as you’re playing them.
Everyone in your group will develop their own creativity.