Benjamin Penfold

Ben has dedicated his life to music from a young age. He earned a BA in Popular Music & Recording at the University of Salford, during which he spent three years studying latin and jazz drumming and percussion under Dave Hassell. He graduated with First-Class Honours in 2016 and then went on to attend Goldsmiths University, completing a Masters (MMus) in Popular Music, while taking full advantage of the vibrant London music scene. Ben has performed, recorded and collaborated with an eclectic range of pop, rock, jazz, latin, afro-pop, samba, folk and experimental bands and ensembles, including Bat and Ball, Easypeel, Deary, Muna Ileiwat, Uri Sade, Gabrielle Sey, Sister Lucy, Castorp, Catherine Okada and many more. Festivals and venues Ben has performed at include Bestival (main stage), The Roundhouse (Camden), The Queen Elizabeth Hall (Southbank Centre), Manchester Academy, O2 Academy Islington, Boondocks Festival, Other Voices Festival, The Lexington London and Moth Club London. From his extensive studio experience as a drummer, Ben has developed a considered and creative approach to getting the right sounds, feel and part for every project he plays on, paying particular attention to tuning and choice of drum. Using both open handed and cross stick playing styles also gives Ben a flexible and versatile approach to playing. Additionally, Ben is a confident backing vocalist behind the kit and takes this role in many projects.