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 locked in and grooving.
Producers trust him to deliver takes that breathe.
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CONSTRUCTION
"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 Star
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's playing channels the spirit of John Bonham — full-bodied power, precision, and presence. Off stage, he's one of the lads, grounded and quietly meticulous.
Tuition.
Phil provides drum tuition for all skill levels, covering a wide range of contemporary and traditional styles, such as 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.
"The difference between a drummer and a musician is that a drummer plays drums, a musician communicates."
— Max Roach
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.
About.
Phil has played across many original projects, function bands, and tribute acts, performing at venues, theatres and festivals across the UK and overseas.
Years on stage and in the studio taught him what being a musician is all about: creating, performing and sharing music.
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.
