ROLE MODEL OF THE WEEK – MR RICHARD OLATUNDE BAKER – EMBRACING THE ESSENCE OF MUSIC AND HERITAGE

I’m born of English-Nigerian parentage and was  brought up listening to

mostly African music in the UK, although I have very broad musical taste.

I began my musical life aged 11, as a self-taught guitarist, but was progressively  drawn towards the drums of my childhood; eventually being trained by traditional drummers in the early 1990’s, specialising in Yoruba talking drums (dundun), as well as learning  sakaraashiko, dunun and   many other African percussions. Much of my training was whilst playing at the frequent all-night African community events in London.

I’m also an accomplished studio engineer/producer, having originally  trained at London’s old Matrix Studios network, where I was fortunate enough to work with a wide array of top engineers, producers and major artists from around the world. All my studio work is now freelance.​

​I dedicate my working life to my two main passions: African Drumming and Music Technology, both of which I teach regularly.

I love to perform, record, travel and share my enthusiasm with others.

EDUCATION

Richard is a highly motivational, experienced and fun teacher, with a BA in Literature and PGCE teacher training.

He successfully works with a wide spectrum of ages and abilities/special needs. His enthusiastic teaching style 

is characterised by a sharp focus, mixed with great humour! He also teaches Music Technology to 17-19 year olds.

Richard is popular in a number of different Institutions who invite him back for repeat sessions and residencies.

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