Drum Tutor
Oli Baxendale
I have been playing and teaching drums for over 25 years, and during that time music has taken me around the world as both a professional drummer and educator.
I began playing drums at the age of 14 and went on to study at Drumtech in London, where I completed a BMus (Hons) in Music Performance. There I had the opportunity to study with some fantastic musicians and educators, including Paul Elliott, Brian Greene, Mark Roberts and Tom Meadows. The experience gave me a strong foundation in technique, reading, musicianship and performance, but also sparked a lifelong interest in how we practise and continue developing as musicians.
Throughout my career I have performed extensively in the UK and internationally, working in everything from rock, pop and function bands to jazz, big band and theatre-style productions. My work has taken me aboard cruise ships and to long-term engagements in luxury hotels across countries including South Korea, China, Bahrain and Dubai. I have also worked as a bandleader, musical director and showrunner, experiences that have taught me a great deal about professionalism, versatility and what is required of a working musician.
Teaching has always remained an important part of my career. I have taught students of different ages and abilities in schools, privately and online, from complete beginners through to advanced players. My aim is not simply to teach students how to play exercises or pass exams, but to help them understand how to practise effectively and become confident, independent musicians.
I believe good technique provides the foundation for everything we do on the instrument, but technique should always serve the music. I encourage students to develop their timing, sound, reading, coordination and creativity while applying those skills to the music they genuinely enjoy playing. Lessons are adapted to the individual, because every student has different goals, strengths and ways of learning.
One of the things I enjoy most about teaching is helping a student overcome something they previously thought was beyond them. Whether the goal is playing their first song, completing a graded exam, joining a band, preparing for further musical study or developing towards a professional career, I want students to leave lessons with a clear idea of what to work on, how to work on it, and excitement about what they can achieve next.
Oli's
Experience
Present:
- XYZ Music Academy | 2026 to Present
(Its Free!)