Gary began his professional career as a performer and an educator in 1989.
Drums were a passion from his early childhood.
He received his first full drum kit, aged 15, to prevent any further wear and tear on the arm rests of his mother’s precious sofa! And drumming went on to become Gary’s sole lifetime occupation.
Drumming has taken Gary throughout Europe to perform. He has played at some extraordinarily memorable gigs — such as events hosted by the Renault Formula One team — and at the stunning Blenheim Palace. Gary performs at drum clinics and promotional sessions for The Zildjian Cymbal Company: he is proud that this world-famous manufacturer has endorsed him since 1994. He also enjoys a long-standing relationship with Sonor Drums. Gary’s performing highlights include working with members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and at a family event for Ringo Starr.
Fun when you drum! Gary Marshall - Drummer. Educator. Musician.
Gary’s students have included racing drivers, surgeons, artists, chefs, journalists, accountants, as well as countless students at school and university. While many enjoy drumming just for fun, some have gained entry into institutions such as the Bristol Institute of Modern Music, and the Academy of Contemporary Music. Others have played at Fairport’s Cropredy Convention and the Cornbury Festival (both held annually in Oxfordshire). And, in 2000, one of Gary’s students reached the first-ever national final of Young Drummer Of The Year — the last 12 of more than 400 entrants.
Whenever possible, Gary will invite a professional musician to join a group of his students at a master class where he will join his guest in giving demonstrations, and ask them to talk about their life behind the drum kit. For example, world-renowned performers such as Dave Mattacks (Paul McCartney / George Harrison / Elton John / XTC / Jethro Tull / Fairport Convention, etc.) Mark Mondesir (Bryan Ferry / Courtney Pine / Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull), Steve White (Paul Weller / The Who / Oasis), and Neal Wilkinson (Paul McCartney / Van Morrison / Joan Armatrading / James Morrison) have shared their invaluable expertise. Inspiring stuff for wannabe drummers.
One of Gary’s current students is Christian Horner, Team Principal of the Red Bull Racing Formula One team. Christian, among so many of Gary’s students, certainly endorses Gary’s maxim: that - whoever you are, and whatever you set out to do - it’s Fun When You Drum!