“There will never be another John Bonham but that’s not what we’re looking for” – that was the verdict of Palace Drum Clinic (PDC) founder Matt Green, who is on the hunt for the town’s next star.
The Redditch-based organisation, which runs monthly events with internationally renowned artists, is encouraging young, enthusiastic drummers to enter its PDC Young Drummer Competition.
“It’s not about trying to emulate Bonham,” said Matt, “It’s about being yourself and being comfortable doing it.
“We’re looking for uniqueness – people who will take drumming in a totally new, different and exciting direction.”
The competition has two age categories, one for youngsters aged between 11 and 16-years-old and an older category for those between 17 and 21-years-old.
Matt said: “It’s important we get people interested because there has been a massive cut to music services over the years.
“That’s why it’s vital we set up things like the Palace Drum Clinic, to make sure the next generation of children get the best opportunities.”
Anyone interesting in applying can do so at www.palacedrumclinic.com between April 1 and July 1.
Auditions will then be held on the weekend of September 7 and 8.
Shortlisted drummers will go on to play live in the final during the ‘John Bonham a Celebration’ event in the town centre on Saturday, September 21.
From there the champions will be crowned.
Matt added: “If you have a passion for drumming we want to hear from you.”