WHO ARE WE?
Drums in Schools tutor key stage 1 and 2 children in UK primary schools; the key is to teach students a strong foundation in music, technique and musicianship. We want to inspire and develop the next generation of great musicians and drummers.
Drums in Schools provide an electronic drum kit to each school. The kit is kept set up at school and used during the drum lessons and for students to practise on during the rest of the week.
The electronic drum kit is used with headphones, therefore not disturbing any neighbouring school lessons or activities that are also going on.
The drum lessons are taught as 20 minute 1:1 sessions and take place during the school day once a week. Students initially learn the basic rudiments and techniques of playing the drum kit along with reading music notation and developing groove and feel for playing rock and pop music. Students are taught in view to take Trinity College Rock & Pop Examinations and reach a high level before leaving year 6.
James Manders
Guitar Instructor and Session Guitarist/Vocalist
MR MANDERS
James is the Founder and Head Tutor of Guitar in Schools (est. 2009) and Drums in Schools (est. 2016). He studied at The Guitar Institute and The London College of Music and graduated in 1998. Since, James has been a professional guitarist and music tutor.
James has previously been a guitar instructor for Southern Counties Music Services (aka SCAMPS) and the Aylesbury Music Centre (AMC).
As a session guitarist and vocalist James has worked along side some of the greatest artists in the world including Mariah Carey, Rihanna, Tears for Fears and Ed Sheeran and regularly booked as a guitarist for the Radio 1 Live lounge.
For more information on Mr. Manders please visit his official website: www.jamesmanders.co.uk
MR OTTAWAY (drummer)
Mr Ottaway found his passion for drums after watching Queen’s Roger Taylor and Phil Collins at Live Aid back in 1985. His love for music and drumming inspires students to learn and play the drums.
Scott has performed and toured with the 1960’s band The Searchers performing their classic hits: Needles And Pins; Love Potion #9 ; Sweets For My Sweet; Listen To Me and Hungry For Love
Mr Ottaway is currently the drummer for indie band, The Pocket Gods. Their last album 100 x 30 made it to in the Guinness Book of Records for the most songs on an album!
For more information on Mr. Ottaway please visit his official website: www.scottottaway.com
James Manders has been teaching my son Dylan the guitar for just over a year. We have been delighted with his progress so far. He always really looks forward to his lessons, and has enjoyed the wide range of music which James has taught him, from classical to jazz and pop. James is a very inspiring teacher who is able to motivate his students to want to learn and improve their skill. At the end of his lesson today, Dylan said to me “I can’t wait to get home and practise!”