Click here to view a video of this masterclass

Review by Thomas Price

The students at the Institute have been filled with anticipation for a long time, and on Tuesday 23rd October, the wait was finally over.

Thomas Lang, one of the most skilled and influential drummers in the world today touches down in Kilburn for a special master class. Whether you're a drummer, guitarist, bassist or vocalist, this would prove to be one of best master class ever at the Institute, and a once in a lifetime experience.

Prior to the master class, this year's intake of drum students (myself included) had the opportunity to receive some tuition from the man himself, which we all thoroughly enjoyed. But of course, Thomas would be pulling out all the stops when it came to his master class. He even said that after all of his lessons with the students, now it was "time to show off!". He stepped behind his Roland electronic drum kit, and began with some of his own music from the award-winning DVD, "Creative Coordination and Advanced Foot Technique". He later explained that he wrote these songs in order to help showcase the various ideas and techniques he uses, but played in a musical context. Next followed an amazing solo, and the audience could now see how impressive Thomas really is. Some parts were just jaw-dropping!

The audience was also treated to a demonstration of some of Thomas's great stick tricks, and some of the weird and wonderful sounds he can use on his electronic set up. Everyone there was obviously blown away by his monster ability, but Thomas was very down to earth and modest about his success. He is a great example of someone who has studied and worked very hard to be where he is today, and I admire his sheer determination to be the best musician he can be. I can only hope that the students can follow the same ethic.