Ask the Pro’s: Jamie Morrison, Stereophonics

We are delighted to announce that throughout the Lock down period, we have been busy putting together a new and exclusive 'Ask the Pro's' feature where we ask some of the worlds most respected musicians how they learned to play their instrument and what advice they would give to new musicians.

These features are exclusive to Progress Music Academy and offer a real insight into how they did it and how you can too.

 

Jamie

The first instalment is from Drummer Jamie Morrison (Stereophonics):

1. Did you have lessons or are you completely self-taught?

I had LOTS and LOTS of lessons

If you had lessons, how long did you take lessons for?

10 years

2. How important do you think it is to learn to read/write music?

I thinks its relevant because it will open you up to the nuts and bolts of beat values, rests and dynamics etc etc although I only needed the skill once in 18 years.  But when I did need it I was grateful I had done the work

KNOWLEDGE is POWER, But experience is the boss

3. We’re there any ‘lightbulb’ moments you remember having whilst you were learning?

There is only one thing that matters and that is individuality.  If you want to work, BE UNIQUE.  There will be no answer you read that will be more relevant than this.

4. Do you have any specific tips for a good practise regime?

10 hours every day for as long as your Parents / significant other / Job or other commitments allow you too.  That duration of time will get you where you wanna go FAST

5. Do you have any advice for a drummer (or musician) who is just starting out on their learning journey?

Simple
Install a good technique early on, Create a good foundation of knowledge and ability EARLY ON

THEN
Forget about it and follow your heart and passion. BE YOU and bring something new to the table because we've got enough of blandness,  we need the new wave of musicians and artist to be fresh and vibrant now more than ever

I will add one thing which accelerated my drumming, I learnt how to play other instruments.  Learning another instrument will expand your horizons more than you could ever imagine...

Catch Jamie in action below:

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