November 2007 saw the very first Mapex UK Drummer of Tomorrow competition. The aim of the contest was to seek out aspiring UK talent and assist in the development and progression of a professional career as a drummer.
Each finalist was asked to perform a three-minute groove and a three-minute technical piece. As the spirit of the competition is to aid the development of the working musician, they needed to be dynamic and show good understanding of drumming as a musical art.
The final took place on the main stage at Music Live before a panel of judges who included Justin Scott - The Institute tutor/educator; Jason Bowld - Mapex artist - Pitchshifter/This is Menace; and Martin Potts from Mapex UK.
The 16-18 year old category winner was Josh Devine who was selected for his natural understanding and flare for the kit. The 19-25 year old category winner was Berkley graduate John Hirst, for his charisma, distinctive playing style and rock solid time keeping.
Both winners have been made full international Mapex endorsees and you can track their career progress on the Mapex website.
"They said, ‘Thank you, but no thank you - it’s not a Monkees song.’ He said, ‘Wait a minute, I am one of the Monkees! What are you talking about?’": Micky Dolenz explains Mike Nesmith's "frustration" at being in The Monkees
“There’s nights where I think, ‘If we don’t get to Paradise City soon I’m going to pass out!’”: How drummer Frank Ferrer powered Guns N’ Roses for 19 years
