Bishop from Ealing is our December Scholar of the Month

Following Bishop's terrific performance of Mariah Carey's ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’ which led him to win our #ScholarsSeasonalSongs video competition, we felt he more than deserved to be our Scholar of the Month.

11 year old Bishop started his Scholarship in September 2019 and has already achieved a great deal. He started playing at Grade 1 level and is already working on Grade 6 pieces, he has taken part in all of his school’s concerts so far, his sight reading is improving rapidly and he has sent us lots of fabulous videos of himself drumming. Bishop fully engages in music and demonstrates a genuine love for it. He has excellent rhythmic knowledge and is especially confident when improvising and playing in front of others.

We hope you enjoy reading Bishop’s Q&A and watching his BRILLIANT, Christmassy, winning performance!

Why did you decide to play the drums and what do you like most about them?

In today’s culture, drums are one of the most popular instruments and one of the oldest in history. At first glance, drums may sound loud and imposing, but they are some of the most useful resources for both my physical and mental health. Drums have an incredible ability to make me feel more energised and transform a dull environment into an enjoyable one in turn. Drumming improve my coordination skills, social skills, creative skills, burn some calories and also helps me understand music better.

How has your Scholarship been going this year? Have you taken part in any exciting activities or events?

I have really enjoyed my journey so far and have gain a lot of skills in my drumming. I have my instrument at home and had the chance to do videos, which was posted on the London Music YouTube channel and my mum’s YouTube channel. I always get excited watching the videos and how far l has come in my journey. I was part of those who won the competition during the pandemic which l purchase drums sticks, drumming stick holder and mute pad from Amazon.

I had online learning with Ealing Music Services during the pandemic and was part of the Cadenza Music festival which was on Facebook. I also go on YouTube to watch and other London Music Fund scholars which gave me the courage to overcome my challenge when I was at home. I was awarded a Bursary and had the opportunity to attend zoom sessions with Guildhall School of Music and Drama for essential music theory which l enjoyed during the pandemic. I still practise at home and share my videos with London Music fund and Ealing Music Services, which has built my confidence.

What is your proudest musical moment so far?

I am now in Greenford high school and have drumming sessions and percussion, which l enjoyed a lot. My proudest musical moment so far was when l was awarded a London music scholar and my pictures was on the walls in my primary school, which l will never forget in my life. I will continue to entertain the community and the church I attend with my talent. Thank you all for your support. God bless you all.