It’s not every day that rock legends visit our school, but that’s exactly what happened when Jeff Rich, drummer from Status Quo, joined us for an unforgettable workshop. The excitement in the air was electric as the legendary musician, known for his iconic rock anthems, took time out of his busy schedule to spend the morning inspiring our young musicians in years 4, 5, and 6. And what a morning it turned out to be!
The highlight of the visit was undoubtedly the drumming workshop. Our students, ranging in age and experience, were eager to learn from the master himself. From the moment the first drumbeat reverberated through the room, the energy skyrocketed. Jeff showcased his exceptional drumming skills and shared stories from decades on the road, offering invaluable insights into rhythm, timing, and the pure joy of making music. But it wasn’t just about striking the drums – it was about connecting with the beat on a deeper level, and the children soaked up every moment.
Under Jeff’s expert guidance, the children explored a variety of rhythms, learned how to synchronise with other instruments, and some even had the incredible opportunity to play on his iconic drum set. They discovered how drumming is the backbone of many of Status Quo’s biggest hits, and seeing the children come alive as they mastered new skills was nothing short of magical.
As the workshop drew to a close, the students had the chance to put their newfound skills to the test. The room erupted with sound as they performed alongside Jeff, creating an exhilarating, heart-pounding rhythm that filled the entire school. With a mix of musical instruments, both students and teachers came together to produce an amazing symphony of sound. It was especially exciting to see our teachers jumping in, passionately contributing to the rhythm and creating music alongside the students.
This workshop was about far more than just music- it was about inspiration. Jeff Rich showed our students that with passion, practice, and perseverance, dreams truly can become reality. His words, “It started with a biscuit tin and knitting needles,” will no doubt resonate with the children, reminding them that you can begin from the simplest of places and still achieve great things. Jeff’s approachable nature and heartfelt encouragement left a lasting impression, and many of the children are now more inspired than ever to pursue their musical aspirations with renewed determination.
We are incredibly grateful to Jeff Rich and Status Quo for making this day truly special. It’s not every day our school hall pulses with the beat of a world-famous rock band, and it’s a memory our students will carry with them for years to come. It was a pleasure having him at Leigh Academy Dartford.