OUR JOURNEY
Starting in 2012, Drum With Alex has grown to serve over 200 students across 10 schools in Berkshire and Hampshire, offering both drum and guitar lessons.
Founded by Alex Lewis, the goal was to empower students by discovering their potential and boosting their confidence. The aim was to provide high-quality instruction that is enjoyable and imaginative, fostering a genuine passion for music.
Today, Drum With Alex has a dedicated team of six friendly and community-oriented tutors, all united by the shared goal of nurturing children’s love for music.
Alex Lewis
Alex Lewis’ dream of making a difference through music became a reality in 2012 with the inception of Drum With Alex. Witnessing students experience that magical “ah-ha” moment while mastering a drum piece is what truly drives and motivates him.
Beyond his role as founder and instructor at Drum With Alex, Alex’s musical journey has been enriched by a myriad of experiences. He has graced screens and airwaves, appearing on TV, radio, and BBC Introducing. From entertaining crowds at weddings, pubs, to commanding stages at festivals, Alex’s versatility as a musician knows no bounds. He has also performed on cruise ships, showcasing his talent to audiences from all walks of life.
In his pursuit of musical excellence, Alex has studied under the tutelage of Clem Cattini, an esteemed English session drummer known for his appearances on 42 number 1 singles. Following the challenges of lockdown in 2021, Alex spearheaded a re-branding effort, transforming his passion project into Drum With Alex. Adding to his diverse repertoire, Alex is also the dynamic drummer of the regularly sold-out Calling Planet Earth show. Furthermore, he has lent his talent to tribute bands like Blurry and The Rolling Clones. In essence, Alex wears many musical hats, embodying a true passion for his craft and a commitment to sharing the joy of music with others.
Steve Corrigan
We’re thrilled to celebrate Steve Corrigan’s ongoing journey with us at DWA! Steve has been an integral part of our family for over 2 years now, bringing his incredible talent and passion to our team.
Hailing from the prestigious Camden Music Service, Steve is undeniably the epitome of cool! A gifted drummer and a versatile musician, he also shines on the guitar and an array of other instruments. With over 15 years of experience in teaching, performing, and recording music, Steve is a true expert in his craft.
But that’s not all – Steve’s musical adventures have taken him on tour with renowned bands like Europe, Skid Row, and Thin Lizzy. And if that’s not impressive enough, his band TOVA has been setting stages ablaze with sold-out shows and gaining widespread acclaim on Kerrang Radio! You can check out TOVA’s music here.
In addition to his stellar musical career, Steve dedicates his talents to teaching drums at St. James CE Primary School in Emsworth, Hambledon Primary, and Wickham CE Primary School near Fareham. We’re incredibly fortunate to have Steve as part of our team, inspiring and mentoring aspiring musicians on their drumming journey!
Jack Smith
We’re thrilled to welcome the wildly talented Jack Smith to the DWA team as a drum tutor, serving schools across Newbury & Thatcham!
Jack graduated from the Academy of Contemporary Music in 2017 with a BMus (Hons) in Contemporary Music. With 8 years of experience teaching music and theory, Jack’s expertise is truly invaluable. He had the privilege of studying under esteemed mentors like Pete Riley and Frank Tontoh, who’ve collaborated with renowned artists such as Amy Winehouse & Craig David. In other words, Jack knows a thing or two about music!
Jack is passionate about passing on his knowledge to every student he works with, regardless of age or ability. Since graduating, he has collaborated with various UK acts, specialising in both live performance and studio work. Notable names Jack has worked with include country artists Alex Tracey and Nia Nicholls.
Jack has been an integral part of the DWA family for over two years now. He teaches drums at Francis Baily Primary School in Thatcham, Whitelands Park Primary School, The Winchcombe School in Newbury, Woolton Hill Junior School, and also offers private lessons at Woolton Hill Church Hall. Welcome aboard, Jack!
Andy Muscat-Fox
We are thrilled to welcome Andy to our team as our esteemed guitar teacher! Andy is not new to us; he’s been an integral part of our team for over 18 months now.
An exceptional guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, Andy’s passion for music ignited when he first picked up the guitar at the age of 10 – and he hasn’t looked back since!
Like our other fantastic tutors, Andy brings years of experience in the music industry. His work has been featured on Radio 1, The X Factor, television, and even in video games. He’s graced festival stages and sold-out gigs, garnering a wealth of guitar knowledge that he’s eager to share with our wonderful students!
Currently, Andy teaches guitar at St. James CE Primary School in Emsworth, Hambledon Primary School, and Wickham CE Primary School near Fareham. We’re delighted to have him onboard to inspire and mentor budding musicians on their guitar journey!
Sion Whiley
Exciting news! We’ve welcomed a fantastic addition to our team: Sion Wiley!
With over 20 years of experience as a full-time musician, Sion brings expertise in guitar, sound engineering, music production, and mixing. Whether you’re dreaming of studio sessions or rocking out at gigs, Sion’s got you covered. From Land Rover launch events to wedding dance floors and even performances at the Isle of Wight festival, his musical journey is unparalleled. Plus, he hosts weekly open mic nights in Newbury for local music enthusiasts.
Now, Sion’s sharing his skills by offering beginner guitar lessons at Francis Bailey Primary School, where he was once a student himself! But Sion doesn’t just teach guitar; he teaches you how to learn. With his vast knowledge and gentle teaching style, he guides your child through guitar basics from the ground up. So, if you’re eager to master one of the coolest instruments (second only to drums, of course), connect with Sion. You will be plucking with ease quicker than you can say Hendrix!
DEAN JONES
DWA is thrilled to introduce Dean as the newest addition to the family, joining as a drum tutor!
Dean, a full-time professional musician since 2001, brings a wealth of diverse experiences to the table. With a Music Degree (BA Hons) earned in 1998, Dean’s journey began with voluntary teaching and leading small groups, setting the stage for his illustrious career. Alongside drum instruction, Dean specialises in teaching brass and piano, complementing his career as a published composer. Music fuels Dean’s passion, and he considers himself fortunate to immerse himself in it daily.
Dean has been sharing his expertise with us since September 2023, contributing to the musical growth of our students. He teaches drums at Thatcham Park Primary School, enriching the musical landscape for budding musicians. Welcome to the team, Dean!
