Meet Sakul Gunawardana – drum teacher at Maxx Music
Meet Sakul Gunawardana, the newest member of our drum teaching team at Rouse Hill Music School – be sure to give him a big welcome!
Sakul has been drumming since primary school and has spent the past 10 years developing his skills across a wide range of styles, including jazz, Latin and Cuban rhythms, as well as rock and blues. When he’s not teaching, you’ll find him gigging with his band, TakeOne, or studying towards a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences. Don’t forget to say hello when you see him around the school!
Why did you decide to teach music?
Drumming made a huge impact on my life, and I aspire to make that same positive impact on other musicians.
Who are your musical heroes, and how have they influenced you?
One of my biggest musical heroes is Wave to Earth. Their music has shaped not only my playing style but also my perspective on creativity. Their music has also helped me understand that being a good drummer is just as much about taste and timing as it is about chops and cool fills. Another one of my musical Heroes would have to be Queen, as their songs were some of the first I ever played on the drums. When I first picked up the sticks in 2015, the very first song my teacher taught me was ‘We Will Rock You’, which ultimately built the foundation for my drumming today, hence why it will always have a special place in my heart.
How have your musical tastes and influences changed over the years?
When I was younger, I would listen to a lot of Queen and Michael Jackson as I was heavy into playing rock grooves and fills when Drumming. As I grew older, I now prefer to play alternative indie and indie rock with my own band. Artists like Rex Orange County and Wave to Earth have had a significant impact on me since their music emphasises feel, texture, and
subtle dynamics. This change has helped my development as a drummer by teaching me when to play less, listen more, and concentrate on creating the proper tone for a song.
What album do you recommend everyone should listen to?
Requiem, by the artist Keshi is a masterfully created album which incorporates genres of Alternative Pop, indie rock, and
R&B. Requiem stands out for its band-oriented atmosphere. Throughout the record, you can sense genuine collaboration, with live instrumentation defining the feel of each track rather than simply backing up the vocals. This is something that I strongly admire about the album, as when it is heard live, these instruments are all given space to breathe and interact, making the songs feel even more alive and dynamic.
Has finding out more about Sakul inspired you to learn drums? Contact us by completing our enrolment form or call us on 0298940000 to find out more and book a trial lesson.
