Biography of Jim Hart

Originally from Cornwall, Jim Hart began playing Drums and Piano at age four and soon furthered this to include tuned and orchestral percussion.

Two years at Chetham's school of Music saw him reach the finals of the '96 BBC Young Musician of the year competition and receive the John Dankworth award for most promising musician in the BBC Big Band of the year competition. He went on to study at the Guildhall school of Music and Drama in London.

From 2001 - 03 Jim was the regular drummer for The National Youth Jazz Orchestra giving him the opportunity to work with the likes of Phil Woods, John Dankworth and Cleo Laine among others.

One of the most in demand musicians on the London scene on Drums, Vibes and Piano, he now plays regularly with Martin Drew's New Jazz Couriers, The Matt Wates sextet, Stan Sulzmann and Gwillym Simcock to name just a few, as well as leading two groups of his own. He has also played with Shaun Escoffery, The Herbaliser, Franco Ambrosetti, The Heritage Orchestra, Airto Moreira and many more.

Jim was the winner of the 2006 British Jazz award for 'Rising star' and also won the 2006 Worshipful company of musicians Bronze medal.