Interviews
Student Interview: ‘Playing before large audiences helped me overcome my nervousness’
The lead drummer at Apeejay School, Saket, credits the school with giving him opportunities to perform at various events
This Class X student at Apeejay School, Saket, aspires to pursue PCB or PCM. But what makes him stand out? He is the school band’s lead drummer. Interestingly, his musical journey didn’t start with drums but with playing the tabla, which he played from Class VI to IX before shifting to drums last year. Meet Anik Gill.
In an impromptu interview, he discusses the support he has got from the school, among other things.
What responsibilities come with being the lead drummer?
As the lead drummer, I have to maintain the rhythm and overall flow of the orchestra. The other musicians rely on the drummer to keep the performance together. If the drummer loses the beat, the entire performance can go off track. I do feel a little nervous at the beginning, but I become more confident once I settle into the rhythm.
Did you face any challenges while learning the drums?
The drums were difficult at first, but I picked them up rapidly. After practising regularly for one or two months, I became much more comfortable with the instrument. Consistency and discipline are very important. One must practise every day and spend at least two to three hours with the instrument. If there is a long break in practice, it becomes difficult to retain the skills and rhythm one has developed.
How has the school supported your growth as a drummer?**
Our school music teacher gave me opportunities to perform at various school, Inter-school zonal and district-level events. Performing before large audiences gave me valuable exposure and helped me overcome my nervousness. These opportunities played an important role in helping me grow into the lead drummer.
Has your team won any competitions?
Yes, our team secured the first position at the zonal level and the second position at the district zonal level in 2025. It was a proud and encouraging experience for all of us.
What role do the drums play in a musical performance?
Drums provide the beat and regulate the tempo of a piece of music. For instance, a guitar performance may feel incomplete without a strong beat supporting it. The drums add energy, rhythm and feeling to the music. A drum kit has around seven or eight individual parts, and a drummer uses grooves, beats and fills to make a performance more engaging.
Do you learn music only at school?
I have learnt most of what I know at school and through YouTube. I learnt much of my drumming technique online, and around 80 per cent of the musical terms I know came from YouTube.
Do you plan to continue drumming after school?
Yes, drumming is something I do not want to give up. I hope to participate in musical events when I go to college. I would also like to perform with a band at restaurants, parties and other events. Even if I do not pursue it professionally, it will always remain an important passion for me.
How have your parents supported your musical journey?
My parents have supported me a great deal. For the first eight months, I practised only on the school drum set. Later, my father bought me a drum kit so that I could practise at home. They continue to encourage me, even though the sound becomes too loud!
