ABOUT ON THE BEAT DRUMS

More Than Drum Lessons

On The Beat Drums was founded with one simple aim: to inspire people of all ages and abilities through exceptional drum education.

Based in Christchurch, Dorset, we're a modern drum school offering engaging, structured and enjoyable drum lessons in a welcoming environment. Whether you're picking up a pair of drumsticks for the very first time or looking to take your playing to the next level, our lessons are tailored to your individual goals and designed to help you become a confident, well-rounded musician.

But for us, learning the drums is about more than simply playing beats. It's about building confidence, developing creativity, creating memorable experiences and becoming part of a thriving musical community.

Alongside private lessons, we also offer school tuition, guest masterclasses, workshops and drum camps, giving our students opportunities to learn, perform and be inspired beyond their weekly lessons.

As the school continues to grow, our vision is to create an environment where every student has access to outstanding tuition, exciting opportunities and a lifelong passion for music.

Our Team

JACK HICKLIN

Founder

On The Beat Drums was founded by professional drummer and educator Jack Hicklin.

With many years of professional performing experience, Jack has toured throughout the UK and internationally, performed at festivals with original artists and built a successful career performing within the UK's high-end wedding and events industry.

Alongside his performing career, Jack is also the founder of a successful live music entertainment agency, working with some of the country's finest musicians to deliver exceptional live entertainment across the UK.

Throughout his career, one thing has remained constant, his passion for education.

Since moving to Dorset, Jack has built a thriving private teaching practice, helping students of all ages discover the enjoyment of playing the drums. That growth has naturally led to the creation of On The Beat Drums, allowing him to expand his teaching through a dedicated drum school with a clear vision for the future.

Jack believes every student deserves more than just a weekly lesson. They deserve a supportive environment where they can grow in confidence, enjoy making music and be inspired by the opportunities around them.

Harry is a drummer and teacher with experience performing across the UK, Europe and internationally. His playing career has taken him from UK and European tours to the West End, as well as major musical theatre productions and cruise ship shows around the world. His credits include The Choir of Man in the West End and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.

For Harry, one of the most rewarding parts of teaching is seeing a student’s progress first-hand. He enjoys watching their confidence build, their understanding of the instrument develop, and their enjoyment of playing grow with every lesson. His aim is to create a relaxed and encouraging environment where students can develop their skills, discover what they enjoy about the drums and, most importantly, have fun along the way.

Harry Humphries

Teacher

Laurie Duff

Teacher

Laurie started playing the drums when he was only 10 years old, and in the 8 years since it has become one of his greatest passions. Over the course of these 8 years he has completed the Trinity Rock and Pop Syllabus, completing his Grade 8 within six of these years. Alongside this official achievement, Laurie is breaking out into the wider music community, actively building a strong gigging foundation with huge aspirations.

Laurie has begun to teach the drums for largely one reason; to share his passion with everyone else, he loves channeling his fun, determined personality to spread his love for this instrument to as many people as he possibly can.

Who We Are

  • Every student learns differently, which is why no two lessons are ever the same.

    Our teaching combines strong technical foundations with creativity, musicality and enjoyment, ensuring every student develops at a pace that's right for them.

    Lessons are carefully structured whilst remaining flexible enough to incorporate each student's musical interests and goals. Whether students wish to work towards recognised drum grades, learn their favourite songs or simply play for enjoyment, every lesson is designed to be motivating, rewarding and fun.

    As the school grows, students will also benefit from opportunities including:

    • Guest masterclasses with professional drummers and educators

    • Drum camps and workshops

    • School drum tuition

    • Performance opportunities

    • A structured in-house learning programme

    • A supportive drumming community

  • At On The Beat Drums, we believe every student deserves more than just a weekly lesson. We strive to create an inspiring environment where confidence grows, friendships are formed and a lifelong love of music can flourish. Through exceptional teaching, genuine encouragement and exciting opportunities both in and beyond the lesson room, we're building a drum school where every student can reach their full potential while enjoying every step of the journey.

  • On The Beat Drums is built around a simple belief:

    Music has the power to inspire confidence, develop life skills and bring people together.

    Our ambition is to create one of the South Coast's leading drum schools, recognised not only for outstanding tuition but also for the community and opportunities we provide for every student.

    Whether you're joining us for your very first lesson or continuing your musical journey, we're excited to help you discover everything the drums have to offer.

    We look forward to welcoming you to On The Beat Drums.

Get Started

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