About Nigel



Nigel Wilkinson began drumming at age 9, performing with his school band. By 14, he studied under George Dean at Leeds College of Music, and at 17, took lessons from Geoff Myers of the Sid Lawrence Orchestra. Throughout his teens, Nigel played in Yorkshire's pubs and clubs, and by 18, he was a member of the Bradford Metropolitan Big Band and Concert Band. To deepen his musical understanding, he also studied piano for two years at Leeds College of Music.
In 2003, Nigel attended the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford, graduating in 2005 with a Higher National Diploma in Contemporary Music Performance. During this time, he received a masterclass from Thomas Lang and studied under renowned drummers Mike Sturgis, Pete Riley, and Alun Harries.
Nigel has gained experience in the London jazz scene and performed with function bands at weddings and corporate events. He has also contributed to developing music schools in Yorkshire and collaborated with various musicians in the region.
As a drum teacher since 2005, Nigel has maintained a 100% pass rate for students taking Rock School and Trinity exams. He has taught in schools such as Ralph Thoresby High School and South Leeds Academy, assisting students with GCSE composition work, he also ran an after school drum club
In 2014, Nigel joined the function band "Be Funky" and continues to perform with local bands around West Yorkshire. He also seeks professional development, attending seminars like the Yamaha Drum Teachers Seminar led by Steve White.
Nigel remains dedicated to teaching, celebrating over two decades as a full-time drum instructor, and continues to inspire students across West Yorkshire.


