Photo: Megan Jenkins
Live & session drummer
I’m a live and session drummer based in South Wales, with over 30 years’ experience performing across genres. I offer live and session drumming for gigs, tours, tribute acts and studio recordings.
Whether you need a drummer who can slot into a band at short notice, play to click, or cover a wide range of styles with ease, I can deliver with professionalism and feel.
I’m based in South Wales but available for work across the UK and internationally.
AS FEATURED BY
On stage & in studio
From tribute acts and jazz quartets to cruise ships and festival stages, I’ve played in just about every setting over the years.
I’ve performed for BBC and S4C, recorded music for Radio 3 and Radio 4 productions, and played at major events like Brecon Jazz, Bude Jazz Festival and the Isle of Man Jazz Festival.
I’ve also worked with notable jazz luminaries including Scott Hamilton, Alan Barnes, Guy Barker, Elaine Delmar, Alec Dankworth and Steve Waterman.
What sets me apart
You need a drummer who’s reliable, musical and easy to work with.
I turn up on time, read charts, play to click, cover backing vocals when needed - and above all, I listen! I take pride in adapting to each band or project, respecting the feel of the music and playing with the right touch and tone for the job.
It could be a one-off dep gig or a full tour; either way I’m comfortable stepping into a range of musical environments quickly and confidently.
What I offer
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Live drumming for gigs, functions, tours and events
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Session recording (studio-based or remote)
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Click track compatibility
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Backing vocal support
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Rapid learner with an improvisational touch
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Reliable and professional approach
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Experience across styles – jazz, funk, soul, rock, latin, pop, and more
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Fluent, confident sight reader
What my peers say
Ian Williams is the most competent and versatile drummer I know.
I use him in my own jazz trio because he brings so much emotion and creativity to the table and yet I've also seen him step in to my highly commercial Ska band, The Navarones, at a moment’s notice and completely nail the material and grooves. The guy's a monster!
- Julian Martin, TV & film composer
Ian is a phenomenal musician and consummate drummer, whose impact on those around him, and the quality he produces, cannot be underestimated.
He is a master of all genres and anyone who has the privilege of working with, or being taught by him, will not fail to be inspired. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
- John Metcalf, professional pianist & teacher
Want to work together? Need a drummer?
Whether you need me for a one-off gig, a full tour, or a studio session, I’d love to hear about your project.
Fill in the form to check availability or ask any questions – I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
email. ianrhysw51@gmail.com
tel. 07585 442038
FAQs
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I work regularly with tribute acts (e.g. Ultimate Floyd, The Amy Winehouse Experience), jazz groups, function bands and studio artists across various genres.
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Yes - I’m very comfortable with click tracks and working with in-ear monitor setups.
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Yes, no problem. I can sight read and follow written arrangements where required.
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Yes - I’m flexible and can often step in at short notice depending on location and availability.
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I’m based in South Wales and regularly work across Cardiff, Bristol, the Vale of Glamorgan, and further afield in the UK and internationally. I’m also available for touring and remote recording sessions.
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Just get in touch via the contact form on this page or email to chat about your project and check availability.