Recently drummers from around the UK gathered at the Institute, London to see the amazing Steve Washington give an out of this world drum masterclass. Students of the school as well as fans turned out in full force to pick up some new techniques and ideas from the seasoned pro.

Steve started out early, picking up his first pair of drum sticks at 11 and started his professional drumming career at 13.  Since then his career has gone from strength to strength, touring with hugely successful acts such as Take That, Texas...and the list goes on!

During the clinic, Steve covered valuable exercises such as single and double paradiddle grooves.  He showed how something this basic could be made into something really exceptional.  He also demonstrated various possibilities of taking one pattern and applying it all around the kit.  All of this was shown to the audience through his unique style of playing the bass drum which he uses to help build speed in his playing.  To many it looked very similar to tap dancing!

Students from the Institute were invited on stage to jam with Steve, while his discussed the importance of being able to "groove" and letting your “ears guide you” when you are playing with other musicians.  It was really great to watch Steve’s charismatic performance and pick up some insightful technical and professional tips!