From starting out learning drums from the age of 7, I achieved my Grade 8 by aged 15 and have been teaching drums since I was 16.

I was the drummer for Sage Gateshead’s youth Jazz band ‘Jambone’ from 14 to 16 and more recently have performed in bands including Dr Drew & The Crew, Osiem and Hone, playing concerts and shows around the country, playing rock, pop, folk, jazz and math rock styles.

I have also become highly proficient at electric and acoustic guitar, and the wonderfully other-worldy sounding Handpan, as well as ukulele, bass, mandolin and a little piano.

Studying my Music Degree I developed a deep understanding of music theory, finding that for some reason it really stuck and made sense to me. I also began to focus more on music production which I now use to create new songs and compositions most days.

Throughout this time though I have always gained huge pleasure from enabling other people to, first and foremost, really enjoy playing their instrument of choice. Being able to start playing and hear yourself becoming competent and improving on an instrument is one of the best feelings in life.

For some people, working through and passing Grades can be a positive thing, to have a focus and recognition of advancing through levels and standards. For other people they can be more of a pressure and learning to play songs they love and want to play, or to play with or to their friends, is more fun and more important.

Whichever your way of learning, I love to work with people of all and any ages, abilities and learning styles, finding what helps you to enjoy it and to pick things up quickest, so that your learning and improving is a partnership between us.

Having recently moved to the Tyne valley, in Prudhoe, I am able to offer lessons again having had a break for a couple of years. I have heard a lot about the highly musical nature of this area of Northumberland and I am looking forward to getting to meet some new like-minded people.