Ben Clark (percussion)

Hampshire-based Ben Clark enjoys playing many styles of music. He plays with a wide range of ensembles and also regularly takes part in concerts across the south ofEnglandand London. In 2010, Ben won the title of Young Drummer of the Year and since winning this award he has made numerous radio appearances. He has represented the UK and came third in Talent of tomorrow, a competition for the best young drummers in the world. Ben has played in many venues including the Royal Albert Hall and Royal Opera House. He holds a distinction in his orchestral percussion and drum kit Grade 8 exams.

Future Talent supported Ben’s musical development by part-funding his place at the Junior Guildhall School of Music and Drama. This enabled him to continue his lessons at the Guildhall with a teacher with whom he has been learning for a while. Being able to remain with this same tutor was hugely beneficial to Ben’s musical development and his teacher was delighted with the progress he made:

 “I’ve always been impressed with the way Ben soaks up the knowledge and comes up with his own take on things, he’s a very imaginative player and spends a lot of time practising his instrument. This sets him apart from a lot of students his age…I can’t put into words how pleased I am with his progress and dedication and I’ve no doubt he has a bright future ahead of him.” (Ben’s drum teacher)

 As well as enabling Ben to continue on his current musical pathway, Future Talent also gave him performance opportunities, the first of which was the 2010 fundraising gala at Wimbledon. Ben was also one of two Future Talent musicians chosen to represent the charity at the 2010 Philip Lawrence Awards that took place at the BAFTA Headquarters.

 The support Future Talent has given Ben, has given him the confidence to take part in many other events including touring with Drum giant, Benny Greb, and supporting world renowned drummer Mike Mangini as part of the London Drum show. He was also lucky enough to feature in a TV commercial for Lexus cars which included drummers from all around the world!