The GUS Band has announced the signing of the talented 14-year-old percussionist, Jordan Ashman, who follows in the footsteps of both his aunt and his father in joining the Midlands Area Champion.

Jordan started playing piano at the age of 5, but soon developed a passion for the 'cooler' musical endeavours of percussion, and has fast become a rising star on kit and tuned percussion.

Talent

His is now the proud holder of two Grade 8 exam passes in orchestral percussion and kit-percussion, has already performed with the National Children's Orchestra of Great Britain, and in 2018, enjoyed being part of the inaugural course of the National Youth Percussion Orchestra.

Every Saturday he attends the junior department of the Royal Academy of Music in London, studying under percussion tutor, Markus Gruett and now joins a growing list of talented youngsters being developed by the GUS Band.

Jordan has already made a very good impression on everyone at GUS, and has been a great addition to the percussion team ahead of the National FinalsMD, Adam Cooke

Great addition

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "We are delighted that Jordan has joined us to make his debut at the Royal Albert Hall and we hope he can follow in the footsteps of the growing list of successful young players that have been encouraged through our ranks."

Meanwhile, MD Adam Cooke added: "Jordan has already made a very good impression on everyone at GUS, and has been a great addition to the percussion team ahead of the National Finals.

It's an integral part of the band's ethos to support and encourage younger players with opportunities to play at the highest level whenever possible."