Instow man creates UK Drum Show sensation

A man from Instow has turned his passion for music into a resounding success with the creation of the UK Drum Show. 

What started as a modest idea from Neil Golding in 2017 has now blossomed into a colossal two-day event drawing drumming enthusiasts from around the world. 

ABOVE: Neil and his whole family 

This year's extravaganza, set to take place on September 28 and 29 at the ACC Liverpool, promises to be the grandest yet.

Though not a professional musician himself, Neil holds a deep love for music, particularly for Pink Floyd. 

Drawing from his background in the music industry and fueled by his admiration for drumming, Neil embarked on a mission to create a platform that would unite the drumming community like never before.

His daughter, Sophie, speaks highly of her father's journey, emphasising his unwavering dedication to both his family and his vision. 

ABOVE: Neil pictured in the centre 

Despite facing numerous challenges, including the unprecedented disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Neil persevered, tirelessly working to ensure the survival and growth of the UK Drum Show.

The show's inaugural year in 2017, held in Manchester, was met with widespread acclaim, featuring renowned artists such as Craig Blundell, Emmanuelle Caplette, and Dennis Chambers. 

ABOVE: Enjoying the UK drum show at a previous year

However, the pandemic-induced hiatus threatened to derail Neil’s aspirations. 

Yet, with resilience and determination, he steered the show back on course, culminating in a triumphant return in 2022 after a two-year hiatus.

As the show gears up for its 2024 edition, an impressive lineup of artists is featured including John Stanier from HELMET, Ray Hearne from Haken, and Nic Collins, son of musician Phil Collins. 

Reflecting on her father's achievements, Sophie remarks on his ability to overcome adversity while creating a nurturing environment for both his family and the global drumming community.

Sophie said: “Whilst my Dad worked relentlessly throughout covid to keep our family and the drum show a float, my stepmother, Sharon Golding stood by and supported him through all the struggles the family business went through during covid.”

ABOVE: Audience at a previous event 

Speaking on her father’s success, Sophie said: “No matter what hurdles or challenges he has had, whether it be in his personal life, or within the business, he still does his best every day in his role of business owner, father, son and husband. As his daughter, it’s quite moving to see how not only has he managed to create this safe space for our family to grow, but he’s done the same thing for the drumming community.”

Looking ahead, Golding's ambitions show no sign of slowing down. 

In addition to the UK Drum Show, he is set to launch the Europe Drum Show in Friedrichshafen, Germany, marking a new chapter in his musical journey.

You can find out more about the drum show here: https://theukdrumshow.com/