Joel Barford

Joel Barford

Independent

I am a freelance independent drummer based in London. I play a wide variety of styles. I guess you could say I am primarily a jazz musician but I like to think of myself as an all-rounder. I have played with/for: The Nigel Price Organ Trio, Anthony Strong, Tom Seals, CC Smugglers, Greg Coulson, Liane Carroll, Ross Stanley, Dave O'Higgins, Alex Garnett, Lucy Merrilyn, The National Youth Jazz Orchestra and more. Since moving to London I have been fortunate enough to get to work with big names and heroes on the UK jazz scene. I frequently play in and around London and spend a lot of time playing for various people as well as leading my own bands at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club. I also have a pop side to my career which includes playing for CC Smugglers on tours across U.K and Europe from aged 17-19 including supporting Bruce Springsteen in Belgium. I also have the pleasure of travelling the world playing for Jazz, Pop pianist/Singer Anthony Strong as well as Tom Seals. I have Used Vic Firth from day 1 at aged 7. They have been the best tool to express everything I want to get out in the music and on the drums. My dream is to be a freelance musician travelling the world and Vic Firth will be with me every step of the way.

Joel
Barford's
IN 3

Joel Barford's
IN 3

  • WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

    Growing up I was a big fan of the critically acclaimed, award winning Nigel Price Organ Trio with Ross Stanley on Hammond. Ever since moving to London I've been busy playing and recording with heavy weights on the U.K. jazz scene which has quickly lead to one of my favourite musicians on the planet Ross Stanley recommending me for a Nigel Price gig which lead to becoming a permanent member of the Nigel Price Organ Trio I grew up loving. That first gig, was a big moment for me.

  • WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF DRUMMERS

    My creativity is mainly driven from listening to music I love. I get so inspired from listening to my favourite drummers such as: Bill Stewart, Jeff Hamilton, Keith Carlock, Jimmy Cobb, Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones, Tony Williams, Steve Gadd, Kenny Washington, Nate Smith, James Maddren, Steve Brown and more.

  • FAVORITE ZILDJIAN CYMBAL/COMBO

    Vic Firth has been with me since day one. Ever since I held a pair of 7A's in my hands for the first time I knew Vic Firth was the one. Vic Firth sticks has been a perfect tool for me to express what I want to say in the music and on the drums. They have been my trusty steed in my journey and have never let me down.

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