Drumming as a way of life.
With his career spanning over three decades, on stage and as a drumming educator, Phil Carter's reputation rests on his musical immersion and commitment — sharp, dynamic, and locked in.
Students know they are in safe, expert hands.
Bands know that Phil's drumming will get everyone grooving.
Producers trust him to deliver.
"My soul is that of a drummer. I didn't do it to become rich and famous. I did it because it was the love of my life."
— Ringo Starr
Phil is a drummer with a deep, lifelong connection to his craft. Based in Birmingham, UK, he's taught 100s of students, and played and recorded with countless artists, always with the same approach:
Serve the song
Elevate the performance
Never lose the feel
For students, he's a rare mix of patience and discipline — a mentor who teaches not just drumming, but how to think and feel like a drummer.
On stage, Phil is a dedicated and adaptable drummer known for his solid groove, musical sensitivity, and professional preparation.
Whitney Manders
★★★★★
My son has come on leaps and bounds with Phil, he's really took the time to get to know him and how he works best. My son really looks forward to his lessons and is learning so much, it's even helped with his confidence. I'd highly recommend Phil to anyone looking for a drum teacher.
Suyi Yip
★★★★★
My daughter is very shy and a complete beginner who is usually afraid to communicate with new people. Phil is extremely professional and patient, creating a relaxed atmosphere that helped her learn with confidence. She has fallen in love with playing the drums and now practices at home every day. Highly recommended — five stars!
JiffCat
★★★★★
Phil is a fantastic drum teacher and he really gets how to make learning both fun and comfortable. He’s patient, encouraging, and full of enthusiasm. I’ve improved so much thanks to his guidance, and I always look forward to our lessons. Highly recommend!
Jamie Mackay
★★★★★
Phil is an absolutely outstanding drum teacher! My daughter has been having lessons with Phil for a relatively short period after she had to take some time off due to ill health. Now she is back, the progress she has made under his expert tuition has been remarkable. What truly sets Phil apart is his ability to connect with students. He manages to be encouraging and patient while also setting high, but achievable standards. The lessons are always engaging and tailored to what she can manage (mentally and physically), and are always interesting + varied. Whether she is learning a specific song or mastering a technical beat. Her confidence has soared, and she now loves practicing! Which, as a parent, is the biggest win! She's developed great technique and is confidently reading music. If you are looking for a drum instructor who is professional, highly skilled, and genuinely passionate about teaching, I cannot recommend Phil enough. Five stars!
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Tuition
Free 30-minute introductory lesson.
Phil provides drum tuition face-to-face + online, for all skill levels, covering a wide range of contemporary and traditional styles, including Rock, Metal, Funk, Hip Hop, Pop, Jazz, Reggae, Motown, R&B, and Dance/Electronic.
Phil provides expert guidance and preparation for all major UK exam boards, including Rockschool, Trinity Guildhall and ABRSM Drum Kit.
Whether you're drumming for fun, refining your skills, or preparing for grade exams, Phil offers tailored lessons to meet your goals.
• Methodical Approach
• Patient Guidance
• Honest Feedback
Live & studio work.
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Live session work: tours, one-offs, stand-ins
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Studio recording
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Percussion consultation and arrangement
Each project begins with a conversation about tone, dynamics, and intention — the details that separate a good take from a great take.
Phil brings reliability, musical intuition, and the kind of energy that transforms any track.
"The difference between a drummer and a musician is that a drummer plays drums, a musician communicates."
— Max Roach
About.
Phil has played on many original projects, in function bands, and in tribute acts, performing at venues, theatres, and festivals across the UK and overseas.
By gaining invaluable experience performing in many styles and settings, Phil has widened his musical vocabulary and adapted from small, intimate venues to large festivals.
Phil's teaching career began at Birmingham Drum School, where he worked with hundreds of students of all ages and abilities, as well as providing lessons at local primary and comprehensive schools and independent group classes.
