Kevin Taylor
I am a drummer and a sound engineer with over 30 years experience in live performance, production and technical development. My experience spans theatre, festivals, touring shows, studios, and international contracts.
My foundations in drums began by learning to read music on the snare drum as part of an orchestral ensemble. From there I progressed to the drum kit where the passion grew and I worked through Trinity & Guildhall grades. I started a band with some friends practicing mainly Oasis and Stereophonics covers along with many more while learning how to write our own music. We rehearsed in garages, warehouses and living rooms, using garden hoes as mic stands and whatever kit we could get. Priceless early days experience organically learning the ropes with our first gigs at local halls, schools, pubs and battle of the bands. As my skills developed, I found many other projects to work with over the years that gave me much more valued and varied experience through the London music scene and beyond.
Esquire
Nero
Map of Heart
Raven Beats Crow
Mint (EMI signed)
The Singletons
The Bridge House Band
Lucy Layton
Super Deadly Ninja Bees
Jonah’s Lift
Jeanne Naylor
Catatumbo
The Roustabouts
Sparnon Silver Band
All of that early experience led me to more formal education at renowned music school Drumtech, where I studied a year’s Diploma covering drumming concepts, technical skills, sight reading, rhythm section workshops, latin percussion, contemporary styles and general musicianship — including playing as a group at a national Rugby stadium game and many more high-end studio visits and masterclasses. With these new skills and confidence I remained working with some of my previous bands but also found more financially rewarding opportunities with function bands, weddings, more touring acts and an annual dance show.
As life situations changed, I studied an Extended Music Production Diploma at dBs Music College where I earned a Triple Starred Distinction and commenced a new career in sound engineering. Whilst here I was resident drum teacher for the college and recording artist for fellow students. I was also employed as technician, marketing manager and events organiser. I got headhunted to be drum tech for a celebrity music project that included Stereophonics drummer Jamie Morrison and Babyshambles Bassist Drew McConnel.
I then went on to perfect these skills working freelance on many contracts for the following companies and many other small private events:
TED AV
DogBite Film Crew
Tobacco Factory Theatre
Bristol Old Vic
North South Theatre Company
TAG Live
Peel Talent
Miracle Theatre
Danceblast
Grange Hotels
Happy’s Circus
Live Business
TUI
Cruise & Maritime Voyages
The Hall for Cornwall
Clockwork Audio
Blue Thunder Audio
Cornwall Sound & Light
Audio Source
Cornwall Tattoo Convention
Allen & Heath
Falmouth University
Cornwall Music Service Trust
Royal Caribbean
Now with 15 years of experience I have the technical authority as an engineer to bridge the gap between stage and tech crew, having operated extensively on both sides. I focus on translating creative intent into practical results, reducing friction, improving communication, and keeping things moving under pressure. Along with working knowledge as a lighting technician, I have extensive experience as FOH engineer, monitor engineer, stage manager, tour technical manager, system tech, house tech and stage crew. I’ve worked on complex theatre productions, festivals and large corporate setups for parties and conferences.
I spent a number of years in product support and software test for Allen & Heath where I gained a deep understanding of their ecosystem, installation systems and workflows. When problems arise I deal with them directly and calmly — identifying the cause, communicating promptly, and maintaining a steady atmosphere so performers can stay focused and everyone can move ahead at the top of their game.
I have taught the drums professionally for over 15 years. I recognise that every student is different — different needs, passions, learning styles, capabilities and limitations. With the saturation of online lessons across many platforms today, I approach teaching as therapy: to nurture and guide each student toward their goals, present what is possible and show how to achieve it.