“I’m not flattering him (Mike Sturgis) when I say that he is the man – quite simply my favourite drummer to play with…his groove is so big and fat and utterly there that is acts like a small planet, pulling your own notes into its centre through some sort of rhythmic gravity.”
(Pete Langman, Slender Threads p. 77)
This is certainly one of nicest testimonials I’ve ever had, and one that I try hard to live up to!
Originally from the United States, I’ve been a professional musician for over 30 years and have appeared live and on record with a number of international artists which include A-ha, Steve Winwood, Paul Carrack, Jack Bruce, David Bowie, Elton John, Tom Jones, Bob James, Randy Brecker, Wishbone Ash, Asia, Bono, Adrian Smith (Iron Maiden), Dr. John, Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy), Joss Stone, Beverly Knight, Mica Paris and many more. I continue to perform with a variety of artists including Redtenbacher’s Funkestra and The Staks band.
As an educator, I’ve performed masterclasses internationally and have taught literally hundreds of students, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the music industry. In addition to teaching, I’ve had extensive experience in the management of contemporary music education courses in England’s higher education sector. Following my tenure as Head of Education for DIME ONLINE in 2013-15, I was recruited as Head of Education at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford where I stayed until 2018. I returned to DIME ONLINE in 2018 as Head of Education where I’ve remained until the present.
Regarding qualifications, I’ve graduated with a BA in Studio Music and Jazz from the University of Miami and obtained a Post Graduate Certificate in Education from University of London. I am also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.