Brief History -

Hi,

I’m Ivan and I have been playing and learning drums for over 38 years. My professional career started in the early 1990’s and over the years I’ve had the good fortune to tour locally and internationally working with some of the most prolific artists and bands and playing at major festivals including Big Day Out, Splendour in the Grass, Laneway Festival and Homebake. I have also had the opportunity to play on my fare share of records, movies, TV shows and commercials.

I have over 28 years experience as a professional drummer and Drum Tutor in Australia and overseas. I recently completed 10 years of mentoring up to 25 kids per term (50 kids per year) at Sounds of the Street, a song writing music program with Mission Australia, supporting young adults with mental health and housing issues, to develop their musical skills and obtain a Certificate 2 in music through Ultimo Tafe.

I’m currently Head Drum and Percussion Tutor at Ashfield Boys High School as well as private tutoring at The Learning Lounge.

I’m an enthusiastic and positive teacher, and love sharing my passion for drumming with others. I provide one on one tutoring or alternatively a group percussion class (like a drum circle). I’ve been successfully running this group at Ashfield Boys High School for the last 3 years, with great results. It’s great for any instrument too, as it teaches rhythm, timing, dynamics and working together as a group.

I’m up to date with modern teaching techniques and technologies. I’ve also worked extensively as a Sound Engineer, both live and in the recording studio.

I tour and record with high profile bands locally and internationally including-

- Blue Juice, Ray Beadle, The Widow Birds, King Tide, Paul Mac, Jackie Orszaczky, Abby Dobson, Deni Hines, Gin Wigmore, Tracky Dax, Fergus Brown, Speck, Holly go Lightly, Gelberson, Sarah McCloud, Cafe at the Gates of Salvation Gospel Choir, Gail Page and more.

I have also performed at festivals such as Big Day Out, Home Bake, Park Life, Peats Ridge, Sydney Festival and more.

My Educational Philosophy -

Each student is different so I endeavour to tailor my lesson to meet the students goals whether they be short term or long term. By incorporating the many different styles of drumming I play and study I’m able to make the experience challenging and enjoyable!

My Musical Interests-

I enjoy a lot of different genres of music - Rock, Soul, Funk, Jazz, Reggae and Blues.