Jack Menders has been named the UK’s top young drummer after triumphing over 300 competitors in the Young Drummer of the Year competition.
The final, held at the Lighthouse in Poole, Dorset, saw the Cornwall-based percussionist beat nine other finalists to claim the title—on his 16th birthday.
Expressing his excitement, Jack called the victory a major milestone in his career.
“I’m really grateful for this. It’s definitely a great milestone for my career.
I’m really proud of myself,” he said. Along with the prestigious title, he will take home a brand-new drum kit as part of his prize.
Jack’s drumming journey began when he was just a year old, banging on pots and pans. Recognizing his natural rhythm, his parents gifted him a drum kit, fueling his passion for percussion.
Now, after years of dedication, he has secured the top spot in one of the UK’s most competitive music contests for young drummers.
The competition was founded in 2022 by Mike Dolbear, a Dorset resident known for his work arranging the drumming at the London 2012 Olympics.
Praising the finalists, Dolbear remarked, “These are the top ten kids in the country at playing the drums. They’re at the beginning of the marathon. These kids will be playing in big bands in the next ten years.”
The judging panel included professional drummer Matty Brown, who won the competition himself ten years ago and has since played for artists like Stormzy and Sugababes.
Reflecting on his own experience, Brown credited the title for boosting his career.
“I was 15 when I won it, and it absolutely gave me the confidence to do the things I’m doing now,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of technical skill, groove, independence, and musicality in determining a great drummer—qualities that helped Jack secure his victory.
With his talent and determination, Jack Menders is now on track to follow in the footsteps of past winners, setting the stage for an exciting future in the music industry.
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