Foston drummer achieves distinction in Trinity College London diploma

A teenager has achieved a distinction in a drumming diploma from Trinity College London.

Eddie Marshall, 14, recently passed his Associate of Trinity College London drum kit diploma with distinction.

Having secured his grade eight in drumming aged 11, Eddie, of Foston, was awarded a music scholarship to Oakham School.

Alongside both his academic and musical studies, Eddie plays in the Oakham Jazz Band and the school’s symphony orchestra.

He first began drumming aged four, starting lessons when he was at Grantham International Preparatory School.

His first drum teacher was John Monaghan, who teaches in Grantham and helped Eddie progress to grade eight.

Since passing his grade eight, Eddie has had his mind set on completing the diploma.

The additional free time granted by this year’s lockdown offered him the chance to focus all of his efforts into completing the diploma.

With many musicians out of work, Eddie sought a teacher who could help him and found James Smale, who helped him to complete the course.

Predominantly a fan of rock music, notably Alter Bridge and Black Stone Cherry, Eddie frequently goes to Download Festival with his family.

He had to learn a wide range of genres that he was unfamiliar with as part of the diploma, as well as writing his own music. The final exam saw him play 38 minutes of material, mostly from memory.

His mum, Samantha, said: “For the exam, he’s had to learn everything that’s not his favourite type of music, he’s had to learn latin, jazz, orchestral percussion. He’s had to learn all new genres that he’s not as familiar with.”

Eddie is now studying for the next level of diploma and continues to post videos to his drumming Instagram account, @eddiemarshslldrums