Interview with Planet drum teacher and founder, Alain Maurel

Hi Alain, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got into playing drums?

I started playing piano as a kid but switched to drums age 17. I thought drums and drum lessons were easier, which is maybe true at the very beginning, but really they're a lot of work!

What made you want to go into teaching?

I started teaching drum lessons professionally after completing a CTMA music teaching course in Goldsmith college many years ago. Teaching drums was always a lot of fun for me, and a good way to supplement my income between recordings and tours. 

Who is your biggest musical inspiration and why?

My main inspirations are John Coltrane, early blues and Bob Marley for the soul in their music. The Beatles are a great inspiration for the wonderful songwriting. Traditional percussion music is also very important because rhythm is where all music comes from.

What is your favourite style to play?

I love Jazz, Latin, and African styles mostly. 

I have been informed that you have a drum book coming out! Can you tell us what people can expect from this book?

Yes, I've been writing the new drum book for two years now. It is a synthesis of all the teachings I've received and transmitted since I started playing. The book incorporates snare drum technique and coordination studies as well as play alongs in all styles, with over 100 audio tracks! My friend Mark Fletcher is a featured guest drummer in the second part of the book. 

What made you decide to write this drum book?

When teaching, I've always been using a multitude of books with my students, and I really wanted to condense all this important information into one book.

When can people expect to buy your book/when roughly can we get our hands on it?

Expect to be able to buy the drum book by late 2021 or early 2022. 

Finally, what advice would you give to students just starting to learn the drums/students who want to start to learn drums?

Get yourself a good drum teacher you have a good relationship with, and listen to as much music as possible. Go to gigs, learn the history of drumming, and ... practice!