Masterclass: Ralph Rolle (Chic)

When it comes to drummers, few are as decorated as the one and only, Ralph Rolle. From Erykah Badu to Prince, Ralph has played alongside some of the biggest names in the business.

No stranger to BIMM, Ralph has already hosted several masterclasses at various colleges in our group. In February this year, he took part in a very special event for BIMM London with none other than Nile Rodgers and CHIC bassist Jerry Barnes, so we were thrilled that Ralph found time to visit BIMM Brighton on the back of this recent masterclass.

Last week the New Yorker sat down with BIMM Brighton’s Head of Drums, Pat Garvey, to talk about his incredible music career and his current work with Nile Rodgers and CHIC, who are preparing to release their highly-anticipated comeback album.

Informative and engaging, the in-demand drummer was all too willing to share his extended depth of knowledge and music expertise, before giving a number of live impeccable drumming demonstrations for our audience of 110 students.

Reflecting on the masterclass, our host, Pat Garvey said:

“Ralph’s passion for education is infectious, the whole room was up and jumping at the end of the session, and the students left buzzing about what they’d just been part of. Truly one of the best masterclasses we’ve ever had at BIMM.”

Gareth Wrigley (BA3 Drums) also praised Ralph’s ‘inspiring’ mentoring style:

“Ralph’s masterclass left me feeling inspired and passionate about music. Ralph makes you feel like you can achieve anything and offers great advice. Best masterclass I’ve ever been to!” he quipped.

Echoing his comments was Samuel Schlich-Davies (BA2 Drums), who said:

“Ralph Rolle’s drumming was very inspiring, but his attitude and desire to help others made him stand out from the rest of the clinics I’ve seen, his choice of material, his message, sense of humour and mastery of the instrument made it a most memorable masterclass.”

It was a great pleasure to welcome Ralph back to BIMM to speak at our Brighton College. Something tells us this won’t be the last time he visits!