Drummer

Alex Shad

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About Alex Shad

Drummer/Percussionist and band leader available for gigs and sessions.
Drummer
Barnet
Public liability insurance of £10 million

Hi! My name is Alex. With over 10 years of live experience and a degree in popular music I have a strong understanding of varying genres and musical situations from theatre and panto to ample experience within the function circuit and session work. Whether it be a high profile gig in Shangai, touring with an original act on the festival circuit at Boomtown and Bestival (among others), or frequently performing request shows for numerous events. I've loved music for as long as I can remember, Funk, Soul and Jazz in particular, and am fortunate to do it as a full time job whether it be behind a drum kit or with my fully equipped percussion setup. My greatest strength as a musician is the ability to play dynamically, from the standard drummer stereotype of "What?I'm already playing as loudly as I can" to grooving at a volume to have quiet chat over. I also have experience as a studio session musician with highlights being in Abbey Road, RAK and Metropolis. Whether you're in need of a drummer/percussionist or looking for someone to get a band together I'll likely be a great fit for what you need.

Alex Shad
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5 out of 5
2 verified reviews

Alex Shad's Reviews

From customers:

NK
Natalie K
5 years ago, for a Bar / Club / Venue event in GU30 7PE
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5 out of 5

Alex is an outstanding player who you can trust to excel in whichever musical situation he is hired for, with the utmost professionalism and energy. He is punctual and reliable, and is always smiling which is infectious. Would definitely hire him time and time again!

RW
Ryan W
5 years ago, for a Wedding in BN27
Full starFull starFull starFull starFull star
5 out of 5

Reliable and tasteful musician who is great to get along with. Would highly recommend Alex!

Encore badges
3rd Anniversary
This act has been working with Encore for over 3 years

Alex Shad's Song list

-Familiar with all standard function calls in any genre
-Familiar with jazz standards/ can play to Real Book chart
-Frequent gigs with request shows, ability to pick up songs on the go
-Can quickly and efficiently learn new material
A small selection of artists include
Stevie Wonder
Bruno Mars
Earth Wind & Fire
Dua Lipa
Michael Jackson
Luther Vandross
Tom Misch
Chic
Toto
Tower Of Power
Jamiroquai
Bill Withers
Steely Dan
Chaka Kahn
Lenny Kravitz
The Police
Sting
Queen
James Brown
The Doobie Brothers
Justin Timberlake
Average White Band
Marvin Gaye
Vulfpeck
Aretha Franklin
Sister Sledge
The Beatles
The Killers
Beyonce
Lionel Richie
Pharrell Williams
Maroon 5
Outkast
McFly
Frank Sinatra
Sam & Dave
Fleetwood Mac
Jerry Lee Lewis
Elvis
Ray Charles
Nat King Cole
Chat Baker
Louis Armstrong
Little Richard
Beyonce
Estelle
Amy Winehouse
Spice Girls
Prince
Sister Sledge
Chaka Khan
Paul Simon
Taylor Swift
Bill withers
Oasis
Ed Sheeran
Elton John
Toploader

Alex Shad's Prices

Note: prices may vary based on travel distance. For an exact quote, click “Check availability”.

Standard Prices
Performance durationPrice
Short performance (up to 15 min)£200
Up to 1 hour£200
Up to 2 hours£300
Up to 3 hours£300
Customer questions

What if my timings change after I've booked you?

No problem at all, I always try my best to be flexible to help ensure your event runs as smoothly as possible. If timings change slightly in the run up to the event just let me know

Can you provide an iPod/DJ service before and between your sets?

If hiring me as a band leader this is no problem at all, I offer the service and will be added on to the total per hour hiring rate.

How much time do you need to set up?

As a drummer 20 minutes. With a band 1.5 - 3 hours before the performance time. As soon as our PA is set up I can provide a free playlist service to help set the atmosphere and get your guests ready for the live performance

Can I pick the pieces you play from the set list?

The set lists are crafted from countless performances and learning what works best to ensure guests dance and have an amazing time. However, I'm definitely happy to chat through to make sure I what works for your event.

Do you bring all the equipment you need to perform?

I have a range of equipment available depending on the style of music and venue.

Can you learn specific pieces before the event?

If a song isn't included in the song list there may still be a chance I already know it. If there is a special song you'd like us to learn I am happy to do this for you. There is a fee of £30 for this service to take into account rehearsal times etc.
Musicianship
Genres:
Pop, Funk, Christmas, Electro-Swing, Drum 'n' Bass, Garage, 1930s era music, 1920s era music, 1940s era music, 1950s era music, 1960s era music, 1970s era music, 1980s era music, 1990s era music, Rockabilly, Country, Jazz, Blues, Swing, Modern jazz, Jazz fusion, Postmodern jukebox jazz, Cabaret, Easy listening, Originals, Marching, Acoustic, Ambient pop, Americana, Funk rock, Disco, Covers, Hip Hop, Karaoke, Motown, R&B, Vintage, Tribute, Soul, Top 40, Rock, Alternative rock, Britpop, Classic rock, Glam rock, Indie, Pop rock, Rock 'n' Roll, Bossa nova, Latin, Ska, Military, Folk, Ceilidh, Dixieland, Latin jazz, Ragtime, Hard rock, Hardcore, Progressive rock, Synth rock, Salsa, Samba
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Instruments:
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Event types:
Bar / Club / Venue event, Wedding, Private event, Birthday party, Burns night, Cruise, Theatre / Show, Recording session, Concert, Charity event, Corporate event, Christmas party, New Year's Eve
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Other skills:
Instrumental teaching, Producer, Drum technician, Fluent improviser
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