Bridgwater College were lucky to welcome internationally renowned drummer, Ian Matthews, to attend a Q&A and drumming workshop with Bridgwater College Music students and pupils from local secondary schools.

The Q&A was held at The McMillan Theatre, where Ian was interviewed by Bridgwater College’s Music Course Leader, Gemma Bott. Ian spoke about his experiences, what has motivated and inspired him and how his career has become such a success. Giving hopeful musicians advice, Ian advised the group that they need a total passion for the industry to stand a chance at succeeding.

After the Q&A, local school pupils and Bridgwater College students took part in a drumming masterclass in the College’s TV Studio. Pupils from around the county, including Westfield Academy in Yeovil, Gordano School in Bristol, Crispin School in Street and Courtfields School in Wellington, watched as Ian demonstrated warm up techniques, different drum stick sounds and gave advice on the best drum records from the past 50 years.

Joe Frost, 14, from Worle Community School in Weston-Super-Mare, who got the chance to play the drums with Ian said,

“The experience was great. I hope to be a drummer when I’m older, so this has definitely been my highlight of the year so far!”

Gemma Bott, Course Leader for Music at Bridgwater College said,

“Ian Matthews was the perfect guest to speak with the group, and hearing about his fantastic career was such an inspiration for the budding drummers. On behalf of Bridgwater College, I would like to pass on a huge thank you to Ian for taking his time to provide such a worthwhile and memorable experience to everyone involved.”

If you would like more information about studying Music courses at Bridgwater College please contact our Information and Guidance team on 01278 44123.