Simon

How did you get to the drums?
I was the classic pest with pots and wooden spoons. For a long time, guitar was actually my favorite instrument. That changed when I saw the drum set of a classmate in first grade. I was immediately fascinated! At the open day of the music school, everything became clear to me: the drum teacher was the coolest! My parents were not very thrilled (too loud, too big, too expensive). Luckily, I was allowed to share a kit with my brother. Everyone was happy (except our neighbors).

What fascinates you about the drums?
Playing, learning, and losing myself (me and my drums!) simply makes me very happy. At the moment, I actually enjoy playing alone in the practice room the most, simply because I don’t get to do it very often and there is still so much to discover for me. Of course, I also enjoy playing with other musicians and like being on stage.

What is the most important thing for you when practicing?
Time, patience and (I don’t like to admit it) structure. Writing things down sometimes also helps. But the most important thing is passion.

What do you pay particular attention to when teaching?
It’s important to me that we all enjoy what we are doing. There’s nothing more inspiring than seeing someone involved with passion. Of course, I try to respond individually to my students and find out what interests them. I’m just the one supporting them on their journey.

What has been your greatest experience as a musician so far?
I have experienced many beautiful moments, and I assume many more will follow. Comparing individual events is very difficult for me. Something that happened recently has a different presence than something long ago. Maybe I just haven’t yet had “that one crazy thing.

On which equipment do you prefer to play?
I like to try out new things. Recently, I’ve been playing an 18" bass drum, which I really like. I enjoy big, thin cymbals with a warm and dry sound. I don’t have a favorite brand, neither for cymbals nor for drums.

What else is important to you in your life besides music?
I also work as a graphic designer and enjoy art & design. That combines well with music. I really like snowboarding but only enjoy winter if there’s snow. Friends & family are important to me, but unfortunately often come a bit short. That’s why balance and inner peace are essential.