All beginners are given written examples of exercises to help them practice. *Currently on hold until further notice in 2024*

I have been supported by Paiste Cymbals since 1998 and my teaching kit is set up with Paiste Cymbals. I specialise in all Paiste products and will not be beaten on price, service or knowledge. If you don't see the cymbal you are after on my website please email me.

I purchased my 1^st drum kit just before my 20^th Birthday after spending 4 years air drumming. Although I started late I practiced a lot and took to the theoretical side of learning quite well and now I have a great passion for helping drummers of all levels with their theory. I developed my drumming through many lessons and have enjoyed attending many Drum Clinics in the UK and USA. I have played numerous gigs all over Europe as well as presenting some Workshops and Drum Clinics of my own*.

Since 1991 I have taught in many schools in the Merseyside area and used to be the Head Drum Teacher for Liverpool City Council.

Review of Julian's Workshop - Plymouth England For Immediate Release August 2004

It's surprising what you can organise in a week. One innocent phone call set the ball rolling for what was to be a very busy Sunday for myself and Alan Faulkner who runs today's venue; The Drum Centre in Plymouth.

The background on this evolution is that Paiste are sponsoring a number of workshops being run by Liverpool based tutor Julian Marsden. (For those of you who've been living under a rock, Julian is the proprietor of Ecymbals, and probably the UK's No1 Paiste expert) Where Julian gets out and about passing on tips and hints picked up at the Rhythm course, and any new tricks he's developed to add to his, already considerable, 'tool box' of skills.

The local turnout was quite good, considering only 10 days of advertising. 25 or so eager drummers with a thirst for knowledge; Quite a mixed bunch both in age, early teens to mid fifties, and ability, 1 to 5 years playing. Julian took to the stage, and within 10 minutes had them in the palm of his hand. (His opening solo, aptly entitled 'Ambulance', should be seen to be believed.) There then followed two hours of interactive instruction which showed the vast array of possibilities using just single strokes, double strokes and paradiddles when applied to a drum kit utilising both hands and feet.

Not everything was theoretical learning though. Audience participation was very high on the agenda with a number of the younger members invited up to show their skills and develop new ones. A few jokes, some friendly banter, prizes, and, to the horror at the possibilities of eye loss, how to twirl and flip sticks whilst playing. (The sight of 20 or so teenagers throwing drumsticks around with varying degrees of control was, to say the least, a fascinating, yet frightening spectacle.)

Needless to say, the two hours flew by and before we knew it, the workshop was all over. It's a testament to Julian's teaching experience and skills as a drummer that everyone, including some local drum teachers, came away with some new ideas and approaches. His easy going and genial manner meant that no-one felt uncomfortable and the majority of what was taught was assimilated.

So to conclude, a very enjoyable experience by all, and showing credit to his own personal integrity, Julian didn't mention his own business at any time. He came here to play drums and teach. And did exactly that. And for the future? Alan has already booked the return trip for next year, young drummers in Plymouth have experienced, (For the first time in MANY a year) a drumming event. And the sales of eye-patches, double pedals and drop clutches is set to soar.

Review by Gary Farrimond

Testimonial For Julian Marsden:

Thanks again for an unforgettable experience last week. I think teachers, regardless of the subject they teach, can appreciate good teaching practices and techniques. Yours were fantastic: engaging the students, clear instructions, demonstrating, top correction methods, student centred, planned, logical stages, fun, memorable, and at the end of the class we could do what we couldn't at the start. You are a great teacher and friend. (Peter John Williams, Brazil)