Take your drumming to the next level with professional drummer and educator Darren Ashford

Darren has had a monumental positive influence on my drumming career, as a professional musician and as a person. His empathetic approach helped me feel understood, and his incredible playing backs up all of his knowledge!
Darren was my principle Drum Techniques lecturer at ICMP, London, and helped me secure a BMus (Hons) First Class.
I highly recommend Darren as a drum tutor, mentor and professional musician.

One of the best drummers I've worked with, but one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet.

An absolute gentleman, and one of the finest drummers I have ever had the privilege to meet and learn from.

Darren was one of my teachers during the third year of my BMus in Popular Music Performance (drums), and I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor. His dedication to his students is unmatched. He was always incredibly prepared and went above and beyond to help us grow, both as musicians and as individuals.

His positive energy and attitude were infectious. He made every lesson something to look forward to. Darren shared so much valuable advice and really helped shape my mindset as a drummer and performer. He also introduced me to some absolutely incredible drummers I might never have discovered otherwise, which has been a huge source of inspiration.

I’m so grateful for everything Darren taught me. His mentorship had a big impact on my journey, and I can’t recommend him highly enough.

Darren’s been a huge part of my drumming career, giving me such a strong foundation to build off with a ‘no stone unturned’ approach. Being a professional drummer himself, no matter where you are in your drum journey he will have been there before and be able to guide you.

Very patient tutor who will learn how you learn and adapt lessons/delivery based on your needs. Couldn’t recommend more!

Darren is an exceptional tutor who has been guiding me from the very beginning of my drumming journey. His teaching style is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly patient and supportive. From the moment I started, Darren was able to identify the areas where I needed improvement and pointed them out in a gentle, kind, and constructive manner, which made learning so much easier and more enjoyable.

What sets Darren apart is his ability to teach advanced techniques that are not commonly shared. These 'secret' methods have played a huge role in transforming my drumming, helping me progress from a complete beginner to a level of skill that I never thought possible. His insights into rhythm, technique, and overall musicality have taken my drumming to a professional standard.

One of the most valuable aspects of Darren’s teaching is the way he creates a clear path for progress. He doesn't just focus on technique but also on the mindset and discipline needed to truly master the drums. With Darren's guidance, you can see tangible improvements and feel confident that you're steadily moving closer to mastering the art of drumming.

Darren has been playing and teaching for more than 25 years. Whatever he does is always at the highest standard and he has a proven track record of helping students to develop to their full potential.

Darren is the best. Super professional, has an encyclopedic knowledge & can help you take your drumming to the next level and top level for sure. Definitely a 5 stars recommendation

Darren was my main tutor when I studied a music degree in London, focusing on drums.

He is a technique guru and a lovely guy as well. He has a wealth of industry experience but also decades of education experience which means that no area of drumming is outside of his remit. Highly recommend to anyone looking to take their knowledge/technique to the next level.

Darren initiated my drum journey. He is extremely talented, patient and very personable. He has an extremely proficient pedigree and checkable work history. I highly recommend him to any prospective student.

I had Darren as a Teacher back in 2009 at the ICMP, his musical knowledge, drumming abilities and sheer experience plus his personal treatment made for an excellent experience, I am now a 35 year old professional drummer lucky enough to tour the world, and he is definitely a part of that in one way or another! And a friend!

Darren is a phenomenal drummer and, most importantly, an incredible teacher. He has the ability to understand you and adapt to your needs.
What I most appreciated from Darren when I was studying with him was his honesty and openness when teaching: he will teach you everything he knows and he’ll do so as he were your mate. He won’t withhold tips or techniques that other drummers like to keep as ‘secrets’.
Darren is a proper tutor.

Darren Ashford is probably one of the most influential tutors I've ever had. I had lessons with him over ten years ago and I still remember some of the things he told me to this day. I would highly recommend having him as a tutor!

Darren is one of the most versatile players in Birmingham and also one of the kindest ! Met Darren during my time as a undergrad music student and I still see him for lessons now as he has helped me develop so much as a drummer and musician cannot recommend enough.