Tilly Prosper

My journey with drumming began unexpectedly—one morning, a drum kit appeared in the sitting room. At the time, I wasn't even a drummer, but that moment sparked a lifelong interest. Now, with over 17 years of experience—9+ as a professional—I’ve built a diverse portfolio across live performance, recording, teaching, and composition. I’ve performed with ensembles ranging from big bands like Brighton Big Band and Swing Street, to smaller jazz quartets, trios, and full-scale concert bands. My live appearances include respected UK venues such as Eastbourne Bandstand, the De La Warr Pavilion, and five-show theatrical runs like Oliver! at The Devonshire Park Theatre in Eastbourne. My adaptability across genres—jazz, funk, rock, progressive, pop, and more—stems from broad musical influences, from Muse and Chick Corea to Dream Theater and Tchaikovsky. I draw inspiration from drummers like Benny Greb, Mark Guiliana, Dave Weckl, and Jost Nickel, and my approach to drumming is defined by control, musicality, and sensitivity to context. In the studio, I composed and recorded the drum score for the 2024 short film Fortune Cookie (dir. Thomas Adams), and I offer remote drum recording from my home studio. My current signal chain includes: SM57, AKG D112, 3x Sennheiser e604s, Lewitt LCT 040 stereo pair, through a MOTU 8PRE into Logic Pro X. I'm confident reading charts, playing to a click, and delivering professional-quality stems. My background as a multi-instrumentalist (guitar, piano, bass, vocals) gives me a deep understanding of how drums serve the broader musical picture. Beyond performance, I’ve worked as a drum tutor in both group and one-on-one settings—helping students in school environments achieve their performance goals with patience, clarity, and encouragement. I hold Grade 8 with Distinction, previously studied Jazz and Popular Music at Leeds Conservatoire (formerly Leeds College of Music), and I’m currently completing a degree in Music Business—equipping me with a strong understanding of both the creative and logistical sides of the industry. I’m based between Cheltenham and East Sussex, and I’m available for live gigs, session work, remote recording, teaching, and touring. Clients and collaborators describe me as ultra-reliable, quick to learn, professional, and easy to work with.