Neil’s began performing professionally at the age of 15,  and spent his teenage years playing with many famous South African artists, including Falling Mirror, Winston Mankunku, Thandi Klaasen, Marc Alex, Wendy Oldfield and The Usual.  Neil studied at the University of Cape Town College of Music, and moved to Los Angeles to attend Hollywood’s Musician’s Institute.  Neil’s groups have opened for Tom Petty, Styx, Paul Simon, and Brian Wilson, and you can hear his drumming on TV shows such as Smallville and Felicity.  Neil was recently the house drummer on “The Fran Drescher Show,” where he enjoyed performing with artists such as Shelia E, Dan Aykroyd and Wayne Brady.

Neil loves teaching.  His vast experience and fun style have made him one of Los Angeles’ most popular drum instructors.  Neil enjoys giving drum lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, including those with special-needs.

Neil was a featured judge in the Guitar Center Drum-Off, and endorses DW Drums, Pro-mark sticks, Remo Drum Heads, Zildjian Cymbals and Gator Cases.  Neil also loves PG Tipps tea.  (And in case the PG Tipps people read this — he’d consider a PG Tipps endorsement the biggest honor of all . . . hint, hint

What Red Pelican Music customers are saying about drum lessons with Neil:

“I had an amazing experience with Red Pelican! I got drumming lessons for my brother, who has special needs, and the teacher was very patient, super nice, and knowledgeable. I liked the manner in which the instructor explained things in detail. He also provided my brother with encouragement and motivation. My brother had a blast! In addition, the registration process was very smooth and everyone is super friendly, approachable, and open minded. I would definitely come back and I highly recommend them.  Neil is an awesome teacher!”

- Shelly G.
(Yelp)

“I have never played drums before . . .Neil has been showing me the ropes. He’s a great instructor and definitely knows what he’s doing.”

-Claire G.
(Google)