Derek started playing orchestral percussion aged 11, after musical beginnings on piano and violin (later ‘cello). He persuaded his parents to buy him a drum kit and move house aged 14, and has subsequently studied at The Royal Academy of Music and with Bob Armstrong. Derek’s drumming covers many musical bases, such as jazz, funk,salsa and folk. He is in demand not only for his playing but also his arranging and teaching. Career highlights include appearances on Top of the Pops and Children in Need.