A Month in London
Turning Opportunity into Momentum
A one-month stay in London proved to be a defining experience for Aleš Korošec, drummer and drum mentor. Thanks to a successful application to a public call by the Ministry of Culture, he was able to fully seize an opportunity that opened new creative and professional doors.
During his stay, Aleš explored many of London’s iconic landmarks – from Wembley Stadium, Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the O2 Arena to the Beatles Store and Windsor Castle. One venue that left a particularly strong impression was Olympia Hall in West Kensington, famous for hosting prestigious bodybuilding competitions once won by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
On 11 and 12 November, Olympia Hall was also home to the London Drum Show, one of the most important drum events in Europe, which this year welcomed a record number of visitors and exhibitors. Aleš successfully presented his drum method book and the Drumming SOS project there. The feedback exceeded all expectations – top drummers praised the practical value of the material, and demand for the book was so high that it sold out during the event.
The fair brought together many well-known names and leading companies from the drumming world. Aleš’s stand was located next to ACM (Academy of Contemporary Music), the Music for All organisation and Rhythm Magazine, one of the most widely read drum magazines globally. After the event, he visited all of them in person, learned more about their work and opened up several promising opportunities for future collaboration.
“Many people told me the book stands out because of its practical, hands-on approach. Several mentors even said that this is exactly how drumming should be taught,” Aleš shared enthusiastically upon returning home.
Due to the strong response, the book is already being prepared for a reprint.
Despite some differences, London left a very positive impression on him. “Life in the city is more expensive than at home, but otherwise there are no major shocks. Driving on the left takes a bit of getting used to, even with road markings,” he admits with a smile.
He stayed in Old Street, a vibrant area full of musicians, students and business professionals, with a lively nightlife scene. One of the most popular venues, The Blues Kitchen, was located right next to the artists’ residence. Just a kilometre away, the city takes on a different rhythm, centred around finance, banking and corporate services, surrounded by countless global brands, restaurants and street food spots.
Aleš found Londoners to be friendly, polite and open-minded, especially towards foreigners, who make up a large part of the city’s population.
In addition to the drum show, he attended several networking events organised by the Slovenian Embassy, where he connected with Slovenian and international guests. Among the concerts, two experiences stood out: the London Drum Clinic and a gospel evening featuring a rising star from New York.
Within a single month, Aleš held numerous meetings with representatives of educational institutions, and discussions with one of them are already moving toward long-term collaboration. New opportunities are also emerging through cooperation with independent drummers from around the world.
“I didn’t have a single bad experience,” Aleš concludes. “And that’s more than enough reason to come back.”
