How to be a session drummer with Jon Harris

From big pop shows with stars like Frankie Goes To Hollywood to corporate function shows and teaching at ICMP, our drums tutor Jon Harris is the epitome of a jobbing musician in 2018.

We recently managed to find some time in Jon's diary for him to review the Shure PSM-300 and at the same time, asked him some questions about what it takes to sustain yourself as a modern music maker. 

Read some of his advice and watch our video interview with Jon below: 

What's your top tip for making a living from music?

One thing I realised early on in my music industry career is that working across numerous projects is a good thing. For example, if you get a massive pop gig then you might be away for six months. Then when you come back you might not get a call for work. If you can be constantly on the road then ace, but if not then, there’s a lot of down time.

I like to do a variety of things to keep money coming in so I run a few bands, do corporate gigs, teach at ICMP, private lessons, work on sessions. If you have as many different sources of income as possible, that can only be a good thing. 

What's the best piece of advice you’ve received?

When I got my first pro tour with Roachford, he told me I had a great overall sound, I was a tight player and I should run with that. He was basically saying,work out your strengths, work out what your talents are and go with it. If there’s something good or unique about your playing, then focus on that...  

Study drums at ICMP Music School

If you’re a drummer looking to take your playing and performing to the next level, then why not discover more about our drum courses here at ICMP London? Our drums faculty is going from strength to strength - find out more. 

Our Admissions Team are on hand to help you, call them on 020 7328 0222 or email enquiries@icmp.ac.uk. 

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