The Music Service has had the privilege of working with many accomplished young musicians from Luton over the years. We asked some of them to share with you their experience learning and playing music and how it has helped them in their careers.
Olly Sarkar – Professional Musician
What did you study with Luton Music Service?
Drums, Classical Percussion, Tenor Sax, Bari Sax, Clarinet and Guitar.
What were your highlights?
The Luton Youth Jazz Orchestra was great fun and we also had a lot of time performing. I used to love the rehearsals as well, really gave me a reason to practice!
Where has music taken you?
Since leaving LMS I went on to study Jazz Drums at Trinity College of Music. I was a member of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra from 2009-13′ on both Vibraphone and Drum kit. I have performed all around the UK & Europe, at venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, The Jazz Cafe, Cadogan Hall, The Royal Albert Hall & have performed alongside the London Philharmonic Orchestra. I have composed music for BBC Young Creatives and am currently in the process of publishing a book on Jazz Drumming & Rhythm Section Playing. I write my own music and record remotely from my home studio and have recorded for labels, such as Sony Music, Jazz Re:Freshed & Decca Records. I have recently released my first Solo EP which can be found on Bandcamp & all streaming platforms.
What advice would you give our students?
For beginners I would say PRACTICE EVERY DAY! Even if it’s just long tones, rudiments, scale or technical exercises for 5-10 minutes, something is better than nothing, and for young musicians who are starting to get serious, remember that when you’re not practicing someone else in the world is. If you work hard the rewards will come!
