Nathan Smith
Big Month of Music Young Ambassador
Please tell us about your music education
I play drums, percussion and guitar. My music education began at age 7, when my parents got fed up of me tapping on the tables around the house and started getting me drum lessons. When I joined secondary school I began my lessons with Wolverhampton Music Service through whom I passed my grades 4, 6 and 8. I then went to university at BIMM Manchester, where I got a BA (Hons) in Professional Musicianship, specialising in Drums.
How did your Music Service support you with your music education
Wolverhampton Music Service not only helped me to develop as a drummer and a musician through my lessons, and through my exams, but also through the many bands, orchestras and ensembles that were held at the music school throughout the week. All of the teachers and conductors had such enthusiasm and drive that would encourage you to be the best musician you could be. I really believe that the staff and the opportunities laid out by the music service, allowed me to find my passion for music.
What are you doing now?
I am currently working as a music instructor, teaching music workshops in primary schools. Using my knowledge in samba percussion and African drums that I gained through the music service. In my personal life, I play in multiple rock bands with friends and we gig regularly around the Midlands.
Why is music education important?
Personally, I have seen first hand the joy that music education can bring in to so many people’s lives, not only through the love of playing, but socially as well. Nearly every single friend I have is through music! On a grander scale however, the extent to which music permeates into every single person’s life is undeniable, so without music education to fuel the future generation’s passion, the future could sound very different.