Our Teachers
Drum Tutor
Andy McAllister
I have been playing music since I was 5, initially starting out with piano before finding my real love of rhythm in drumming, making drum-kit my main instrument. I also work in music production and composition, produce electronic music, and have previously worked with EMI to produce music for film and television.
My playing has allowed me to travel around the world and I have performed in France, Germany, Spain, Holland, Luxembourg, Norway, Denmark, the US and all around the UK. I have also played at some notable festivals including Glastonbury and WOMAD.
I believe in being a lifelong student and currently study myself with Mark Guiliana (Bowie / St Vincent) and Christian Bourdon (African drumming expert). I’ve been playing drums for 30 years, and teaching for 15 years, and teach all styles of music for the drums, with a focus on both technique and creativity.
Drum Tutor
Dave Armshaw
Dave comes from a musical family and, although he began his career playing the cornet, he soon found his true vocation after seeing a video of the legendary Buddy Rich, and concentrated on percussion.
In the summer of 2000, he joined championship section Derwent Brass. He is now in great demand as a session player all over the country and is regularly to be seen in some of London’s top hotels, playing with dance bands, jazz trios and the like. Since 2009, Dave has been a dep player for P&O Cruises, which really keeps him on his feet! Dave has also played drums for the last 13 pantomimes in Derby with Paul Holman Associates.
Guitar Tutor
Josh Wheatcroft
Josh is an alumnus of The Academy of Contemporary Music, Guildford. From initially taking an interest in guitar at age 11, he has spent years playing in bands and as a solo artist (performing as Caelan Rivers), possessing a deep passion for music production and composition.
With a diverse range of musical interests, Josh applies these to his lessons to provide a holistic view of how guitar can be learnt, aiming to give students the chance to develop their own musical voice. He also enjoys playing really fast 80s glam metal guitar solos, but only on occasions where it’s considered socially acceptable.
Alongside his degree in Music Industry Practice (First Class Honours) from ACM, Josh also holds
Rockschool Grade 8 Electric Guitar and
Trinity College London Rock & Pop Grade 8 Vocals.
Bass Tutor
Matt Pearson
I am a bass player through and through; it was the only instrument I wanted to play as a teenager and I’ve stuck with it ever since! I’ve been a working bassist for over 25 years in numerous bands and musical projects, and I also spent 10 years working in instrument retail so I’ve lived and breathed bass for most of my life. I consider myself very lucky to now make a living out of teaching and playing bass full time.
I am very passionate about teaching bass from a bass player’s perspective; it isn't just a big guitar, it’s a fantastic, unique instrument that plays an essential role in every band. Nothing makes me happier than helping my students develop the skills and understanding they need to become well-rounded musicians.
As well as my extensive playing and teaching experience I also hold Trinity College London Rock & Pop Grade 8 Bass (Distinction).
Drum Tutor
Martin Holland-Lloyd
Depending on what you class as a drum, I've been playing since the age of 5. If ice cream cartons and knitting needles in your grandma's front room aren't classed as playing the drums, I officially started at the age of 12. A chance encounter with a very dishevelled drum kit in the music room and the music teacher catching me playing saw me join the school steel band within the week. Within a year that band had me in front of cameras at the BBC and by the following year I was touring Germany and Russia!
I've since played in local bands, recorded albums and most recently played in a band at corporate functions and weddings. I was lucky to get quite far in my drumming career with no formal training, but I believe that to truly explore and enjoy an instrument a proper start and professional guidance is vital.
Guitar & Keyboard Tutor
Tim Wright
I am a multi-instrumentalist specialising in guitar and piano. I enjoy teaching all styles of music and love to help those just starting out on their instrument. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to play along to your first favourite band's song!
I've helped many students achieve their grade 8 certificates, but also helped many others reach personal goals of playing those all time hit songs from their music collection.
My lessons are tailored to your goals and ambitions giving you the practical knowledge you need and also the tools to help you decipher and transcribe your favourite songs so you can learn in your own time too.
I have 12 years full time teaching experience, with both private clients and in schools. I have 20+ years experience of live performance in bands and musical theatre orchestras, from Aladdin through to Wicked!
I am graded with ABRSM theory and practical exams.
Guitar Tutor
Tom Platts
I have been playing guitar for 15+ years and have have been teaching for several years. I have performed with multiple bands in this time including rock band Parasight, playing various gigs and festivals across the country including YNOT and Rock & Blues Festival. I also produce music for myself and in collaboration with other artists which can be heard online across all major music platforms.
I have a first class BA (Hons) degree in Popular Music with Music Technology and I am currently working towards a Masters degree in Music Production. I also hold Rockschool Electric Guitar Grade 8.