Simon Marton
Somerset, South West England
Photo of Simon Marton
Mobile:07748610330
Teaching Location:Bath, South West England, SN13 8BS
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Email:Contact Simon Marton
About Simon Marton

FaceTime, WhatsApp and Zoom lessons for beginners globally! Learn to play drums from scratch remotely with an experienced and friendly teacher who loves showing novices how to succeed!!

I am an enthusiastic and youthful pop/rock drummer with a great visual style and stage presence, having taught privately for the last seven years, specialising in beginners, especially those in primary and secondary schools. (I do have pupils in their sixties too!)

This bit makes me feel old!- I have 30 years playing experience in bands, with recording, TV, radio, gigging, tours and festivals under my belt. I have plenty of click track and studio experience and a couple of music video appearances.

My aim is to impart what I've learnt to drummers of any level who want to play solid pop/rock drums in a band context, in a dynamic way, playing for the song rather than showing off !

I have been hired for recording sessions and demos.

I have also successfully prepared drummers for West End productions.

I will cover paradiddles to tambourines, samba to drum ’n’ bass, to basic jazz and how to play a double bass drum pedal. I do cover notation and theory to give a grounding to my pupils. I can advise on the best ways to prepare for gigs, particularly on professional attitude, set-ups, and time-saving when playing in London at tiny venues!

I sometimes use an acoustic guitar to play along with pupils in order to consolidate their learning and enjoy playing music together which is always the ultimate aim! A couple of my assignments have involved music therapy, and helping autistic and dyslexic children become more confident. I am happy to help the pupil with their understanding and enjoyment of drumming and music making. 

Home visits only, within a 10 mile radius of central Bath as well as Radstock, Frome and Midsomer Norton.

A basic kit will be required. Please call me if you have any queries, as it’s possible initially to use pots and pans! Save your money until they show they’re serious!

  • 45 minute lesson £25.00
  • 60 minute lesson £33.00

Whilst I aim to be flexible, and understand family life having four children of my own, I do have to charge full price for same-day cancellations in line with other teachers’ policies, and I ask for 50% of the lesson cost for 24 hours notice or more.

I not only play Sonor drums and Dream Custom Cymbals but actively promote these wonderful instruments!

Testimonials:

"I originally booked Simon to help my sixteen year old son improve his technique and Simon made such a good impression that I ended up taking lessons with him myself. He is able to explain techniques in a way that is easy to understand and he always gives plenty of encouragement. I would be happy to recommend Simon to any budding drummer." (Mark White, Bath)

"Simon is a 'cool', likeable guy who is relaxed and fun to be around and brings a lovely safe atmosphere with him and makes it all a lovely experience for the whole family, as he is a joy to have in your home. We appreciated Simon's flexibility and the way he encouraged Iain, which built up his confidence hugely and really brought out the best in him." (Marie & Ralph Hole, Bath)

"Great teacher, great drummer, great guy!" (Dan, Bath)

"Simon is a great teacher. His lessons are really clear and well-structured and most of all he makes it fun. With him, we really feel as if we are making progress." (John and Stephanie, Bath)

"Hi Simon, you have got an extroverted 7 year old to an excellent standard by reading the individual and knowing when to drive him on and when to consolidate his progress. Keep up the good work." (Mark Archer, Blowout Sax, Bath)

“It’s very fun and good and Simon teaches me lots of great stuff!” (Danny Chowdhury, Bath)

“Danny’s really thrived under Simon’s tuition. Simon has a relaxed and calm approach that Danny has responded well to yet he is always gently pushing Danny to achieve more. Danny’s grown in confidence and thoroughly enjoys and looks forward to his lessons with Simon.” (Sonya Chowdhury, Bath)

"Simon has a real gift in identifying the individual needs of the pupils. His enthusiasm for the art and his patience are instantly recognisable. Watching him teach makes me want to learn as well as my children!"
(Steve Kirby, father to Sam and Charlie, Holt near Trowbridge)

"Simon has a brilliant adaptive teaching style, meaning he can successfully mentor a 20 year old down to a 5 year old. He is very patient and has a commendable work ethic. He brings in famous drumming techniques and practically links them with your own drumming style  and your own drumkit. His skills allow you to explore your favourite songs and teaches you how to play them like the professionals would. I can't say a bad word about him or his teaching."
(Ben Hazelwood, Knowle, Bristol)

"After struggling with a teacher that didn't suit my child's learning style, we eventually found Simon who has proven to be patient, understanding, upbeat and fun- just the ticket for a moody teenager!
It's great to see Ieuan excited about his drum kit again!"
(Donna Lambert, Melksham)

"Hi Simon, great news. Dan passed his Grade 2 Drum exam with a distinction (86%). He's chuffed to bits! Cheers!"
(Darren Wilkins, Radstock, Near Bath)

"Simon is very enthusiastic and patient with my daughter- a perfect combination to keep her interested in learning the drums. He combines his skillful teaching with a great sense of humour and as a result, my daughter is progressing well." 
(Kiran, mother to Sasha aged 7, Monkton Farleigh, near Bath)

"I find Simon to be an excellent teacher with a natural affinity for children. He goes at the pace of the student and makes all lessons interesting. Our son looks forward to his lessons."
(Ingrid Walsh, mother to Victor aged 13, central Bath)

"Simon is a fun, energetic teacher who is really helpful and gives me different challenges every week." (Lauren, aged 12, Oldfield Park, Bath)

"I strongly recommend Simon as a drum teacher. He is enthusiastic and Dominic, our son, thinks the world of him. Dominic's drumming has definitely improved and he looks forward to his weekly session with Simon. I think also that Simon thinks forward creatively as to how to make the drumming sessions more interesting for his protégés."
(Tim Wheeler, Wellow, near Bath.)

"Hi Simon,
I just wanted to contact you to say a huge thank you for the results you are getting from Izzie with her drum lessons. I was anxious having to move teacher after our house move, but you have been brilliant with her, putting her at ease, making lessons fun and getting the best out of her. Both my husband and I are amazed of her ability now. Long may it continue!"
(Rachael Hammond, Winsley near Bath.)

"We contacted Simon to teach our 6 year old son to play his drumkit properly. Simon gets along with him brilliantly and established a connection straight away. He makes the lessons fun while now teaching both me and my son, suiting both our learning styles. We both come away from the lessons enthused to practise the new rhythms we've learned. I'd definitely recommend Simon to anyone who wants to learn drumming."
(Iwein Dekoninck)

"I passed my Grade 3 exam with a merit. Thanks for all your help to guide me through Grade 3!"
(Dan, 14, Radstock, who was convinced he did badly!)

"We always look forward to Simon's visits. He is energetic, patient, has a great sense of fun - and what he doesn't know about drumming, I suspect isn't worth knowing! He is also reliable and flexible, which is great!"
(Alexa Moore, on behalf of Joe, 14, Bearflat, Bath)

"Simon has been teaching our son for a year now and his enthusiasm and ability to make lessons fun as well as informative has been infectious. Our son has made real progress during the last year and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend Simon, as we have done to several friends already."
(Sarah and Alex, Bearflat, Bath)

"Simon has been a fantastic drum teacher for my 12 year old son.  He has really enjoyed the lessons and learnt many drumming techniques.  Simon helped us to get together a drum kit for home.  He is a lovely person and a pleasure to have teach in our home."
(Elaine, mother of Fred- now on Grade 2, Weston, Bath)

"Simon is an excellent session drummer. He is talented and and great to work with..10/10."
(Andrew Curtis)

"I really enjoy my lessons and find them fun. Simon makes every lesson interesting and I learn lots. I have progressed this year in the drums, especially after I stopped playing them for a while. I have learnt a range of different things, including a number of rudiments, beats and rhythms over the course of the year. Simon is a wonderful teacher, who inspires me to play and to learn." ( Guy (13))

"When searching for a drum teacher for my son, I was delighted to find Simon, Guy had lost interest in playing the drums but after just one lesson with Simon his passion was reignited and he now loves to play. I don’t even need to ask him to practice! He just wants to play and looks forward to each lesson. I would recommend Simon to anyone looking to learn the drums in a fun and enjoyable way."
(Finola, Guy's mum, Charlcombe, Bath)

"Simon is a clever and engaging teacher who brings a bundle of experience and wit with him to every lesson. His teaching style is fun and inspiring and perfect for young children."
(Alice, mum to Orlando,Batheaston)

"Simon has been teaching our 8-year old for about a year, starting from an absolute beginner's level. His relaxed & friendly teaching style and use of supporting music and video make his lessons enjoyable and engaging for our son, who is increasingly confident in his playing as well as taking a wider interest in music."
(James and Louise Morgan, London Rd, Bath)

Dad (James Tribe): "Simon teaches drums to my boys once a week at our house and he is fantastic - couldn't wish for a better drum teacher. He's brilliant with children, been in lots of bands and is passionate about drumming, flexible when we need to adjust the rota for some reason, and knowing him quite well now he's very trustworthy and all-round good guy. The boys love it and are progressing really well. And now, in their own words..."
Thomas (9): "I like being taught drumming by Simon because he is very like-able, chatty and fun. He is good at showing you how to drum because he demonstrates the different beats. I look forward to his lessons.
Jeff (10): "I think Simon is an amazing teacher because he's funny but helpful and explains very well. He shows you how to do it and then you can give it a go."
(James Tribe and sons, Batheaston, Bath)

“What can I say? Well I wish music lessons had been this much fun when I was 8. Simon brings fun and a sense of humour (and bucketloads of patience!) to every lesson. My 8 year old actively looks forward to each lesson and is making great progress in a relatively short space of time. And as a parent the fact that Simon comes to the house means lessons literally couldn’t be easier! Thank you Simon - I’m so glad we found you. “
(Becky, Nick’s mum, Combe Down, Bath)

“Simon is a brilliant drum teacher! He's amazing at connecting with his pupils and inspiring them to learn the art of drumming. He's also good at tracking progress and gives my son weekly exercises, so he can improve further. He's also good fun, adds my son Elliot.”
(Sanne, Elliot’s mum, Combe Down, Bath)
 
“Well Simon you were right! Danny surprised himself, got his results back today and got a distinction. 94. Thank you for all your help. Hope to see you soon, Liberty and Danny”
(Liberty, Danny’s mum, Bathford)
 
“Simon is able to tailor sessions to the needs of the individual student making lessons accessible, relevant, informative and exciting!”
(Vickie, Josh’s mum, Weston, Bath)
 
"Simon is an inspiring teacher who makes lessons fun but provides plenty of challenge. He’s got our son practicing regularly and with determination to improve!” (Emma/Theo- parents of Nicholas, Batheaston, Bath)

"Simon teaches our 7yr old son who is severely dyslexic. Most learning experiences are difficult and frustrating for him. From the moment Tom had his first lesson with Simon we have watched him grow in confidence both musically and also emotionally. Simon has been a consistent and strong presence in Tom's little life. Simon is patient, kind, nurturing and inspiring and there is no one better suited to bring the best out of someone. We consider ourselves so lucky to have managed to have lessons with him. He is absolutely brilliant!"  (Lucy Trafford, mum to Tom, Wellow, near Bath)

"My 9 year old started taking drum lessons about 8 month ago. Simon is great with him.He is encouraging and challenges him. He is very easy going and he has kept him very interested in his instrument. He is very easy to talk to and has a great sense of humour.I would absolutely recommend Simon to anyone that wants to learn how to play drums!" (Roxana, mum to Filip, Combe Down, Bath)

“Simon is a brilliant drumming teacher with a creative, fun approach and endless patience. Our 6 year old has learned a huge amount in a very short time Highly recommend him!”
(Jenny, mum to Art, Bath)

"Your encouragement and patience with me as a student was second to none. A true professional...."
(Andy Downey, Widcombe, Bath)

"Simon is a patient and inspiring teacher who makes lessons interesting and varied. He brings drumming to life, working with the pupil's passion, rather than by the book.....Thank you so much for coaching him, it's given him a real boost." (Fiona, mum to Kai, Weston, Bath)

“Simon has been teaching my son, who has ADHD for a number of months now. The progress has been fantastic and my son really enjoys his lessons. We have been so impressed with Simons patience and good humour and understanding of how to extract the best out of someone who struggles to focus. He is a credit to the drumming world and we would not hesitate in highly recommending him.”
(Claire and Tim, parents of Willoughby, Holcombe, Somerset) 

“ I liked Simons classes because he taught me to drum in a way that I can understand” (George, age 9, Combe Down, Bath. *Georgey decided that drums aren’t for him at the moment but that’s fine!)

“We would recommend Simon to anyone wanting to try drum lessons. He is able to make lessons a fun and engaging experience. He has had a huge amount of patience with our son who finds it difficult to maintain focus on any set task. Simon has tailored his teaching to meet Cody’s individual needs and has been flexible around his moods. Thank you.” (Dayna and Guy, parents of Cody, Saltford near Bath/ Bristol.)

“Simon has been an excellent teacher! As a beginner drummer I started out playing along to songs and struggled with everything! Technique, the ability to break down parts into smaller bits to practice and just knowing where to start!!
Simon really helped to give some structure to my learning, providing really flexible lessons, sometimes focussing on a specific small area of technique (e.g. looking at specific fills, triplets, faster hi-hat opening / closing) and sometimes focussing on unusual beats and rhythms.
I've found it invaluable to push myself beyond 4/4 rock beats and expand my repertoire! He's always able to give an example song as a reference point which makes it easy to "hear" and understand exactly what he’s talking about and even though the lessons have been remote, I don't feel that they have been less personal and involved.”
(Dan Turner, Lyncombe Vale, Bath)

"Simon really engaged with my daughter from the word go. The pace was perfect and she seemed to make progress really quickly. Always patient, encouraging and most of all, the sessions were fun! Thank you Simon!"
(Debbie J, Tunley, near Bath)

"Simon has been a fantastic drum teacher for my 15 year old son. His style of teaching really engaged him even through the pandemic via FaceTime lessons. like many 15 years my son is not that easy to engage but Simon brings a mix of fun, musical & life experience that my son loved.  My son got to a surprising level of complexity in his lessons and now has a great basis on which to build. I also think especially through the pandemic, drumming with Simon was brilliant for his mental health."
(Mum of a student from Combe Down, Bath)

"Noah is always buzzing after his drum lessons because he gains a new skill and always finishes the lesson feeling like he has accomplished something and has skills to work on. This boosts his confidence. The humour works great for Noah when he starts to find something tricky, and using lots of humour makes the mistakes a giggle, and helps to make him feel at ease and have fun with it.“(Lizzie, mum to Noah, Frome, Somerset)

"Our 5 year old son wanted to start drum lessons, so during COVID-19 we found Simon. All of our lessons have been virtual but that has not had any impact on the success of the lessons. He’s only 6 and can now play various rudiments." (Laura, mum to Henry, Temple Cloud, Bristol)

"Hi Simon It's been awesome getting to know you and I feel that though the time we have had together has been short you have really improved both my ability and my confidence. You truly are a legend and I feel honoured to have been lucky enough to have been taught by you albeit only for a short period of time. I wish you all the very best in all of your endeavours." (Nicky Owen, Seamills, Bristol)

“Simon has done wonders for Ernest’s (11) drumming game. He’s now the holder of some complex beats, and is starting to conceive his own rhythms based on what he learns with Simon. On top of that Simon has taught him about the kit itself, rounding out Ernest’s knowledge of drumming. Simon’s approach is impressively human, empathetic, and positive. It’s been a wonder to watch how this combination has delivered so much progress.” (Dan, dad to Ernest, 11 years old, Weston, Bath- remote lessons via FaceTime)

I am a proud supporter of Action on Hearing Loss to raise awareness of how drummers and other musicians could prevent damage to their hearing through exposure to loud music and amplified instruments.” 

Drum Lessons in Bath and Radstock, Somerset and now on line (Facetime + WhatsApp) as well for 2022.

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