I’ve been coming to Planet drum for work experience for the past couple of months, and I have to say, I’ve been really enjoying helping out with what they do here.
Ever since I started in November, staff have been incredibly friendly, supportive and willing to learn about my autism spectrum condition (ASC), which has helped me stay calm and organised so I can be at my best to help around. I have learnt a fair amount more about drumming already, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.
As well as making sure things are tidy for workshops and gigs, I’ve been able to use the myriad of drum kits here to practice; it’s been amazing, to be honest. Even though I’ve only been playing for around 3 years, the kits here are so great-sounding and well-maintained that I almost feel professional playing them (although my half-hearted attempts at TOOL playthroughs might attest otherwise about my own skills), and it’s a wonderful resource to have as someone who’s in a band and gigging.
I play in a band called The 404 Stormers, a rock band that’s a part of the charity called Centre 404; based on Camden Road, we’ve been a band for many years and I’ve been a member for two of them. After taking a year break from playing gigs to write music and recharge, we’re back ‘on the road’ and are playing a gig at the end of the month, so the opportunity to practice here at Planet drum (even if I’m the only member of my band here) is very helpful. Plus, the soundproofing means that no-one will complain if I’m playing too loud...
