Ollie Harding is a highly accomplished session drummer whose journey has taken him from the small town of Builth Wells in Mid Wales to some of the world’s most iconic stages. Growing up in a musical household, with his father playing guitar in local bands, Ollie’s passion for music was ignited at an early age. His formative years were spent honing his skills in local bands and prestigious youth ensembles, including the National Youth Rock Orchestra, the Midlands Youth Jazz Orchestra, and the Hereford Big Band.
Ollie began formal drum lessons at the age of 7 with his tutor Janette Williams, achieving grade 8 by the age of 12. At 14, he continued his development under the guidance of world-renowned drum educator Dave Hassell, solidifying the foundation of his drumming career. By 17, Ollie earned a scholarship to Berklee College of Music’s prestigious Rock Workshop 5-week program, where he studied under legendary session guitarist Marty Walsh. He then furthered his education at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) in Manchester, graduating with a first-class honors degree in Popular Music Performance.
Ollie’s drumming style is deeply influenced by the rock and blues music he grew up with, drawing inspiration from legendary drummers like Ian Paice and John Bonham, as well as modern session greats Ian Thomas, Karl Brazil, and Ash Soan. His career highlights include headlining The Royal Albert Hall with The Shires, performing at Wembley Stadium supporting ELO, and touring across Australia.
Over the past decade, Ollie has established himself as a sought-after professional session musician, touring internationally with various artists and bands, and contributing his talents to numerous studio recordings. His energetic and innovative approach to drumming continues to make him a standout presence in the music industry.
Ollie proudly uses Ludwig Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Remo Drum Heads,
Vic Firth Sticks, Roland Electronics, Ultimate Ears, Porter & Davies Monitoring and Protection Racket Cases,
Ollie began formal drum lessons at the age of 7 with his tutor Janette Williams, achieving grade 8 by the age of 12. At 14, he continued his development under the guidance of world-renowned drum educator Dave Hassell, solidifying the foundation of his drumming career. By 17, Ollie earned a scholarship to Berklee College of Music’s prestigious Rock Workshop 5-week program, where he studied under legendary session guitarist Marty Walsh. He then furthered his education at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) in Manchester, graduating with a first-class honors degree in Popular Music Performance.
Ollie’s drumming style is deeply influenced by the rock and blues music he grew up with, drawing inspiration from legendary drummers like Ian Paice and John Bonham, as well as modern session greats Ian Thomas, Karl Brazil, and Ash Soan. His career highlights include headlining The Royal Albert Hall with The Shires, performing at Wembley Stadium supporting ELO, and touring across Australia.
Over the past decade, Ollie has established himself as a sought-after professional session musician, touring internationally with various artists and bands, and contributing his talents to numerous studio recordings. His energetic and innovative approach to drumming continues to make him a standout presence in the music industry.
Ollie proudly uses Ludwig Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Remo Drum Heads,
Vic Firth Sticks, Roland Electronics, Ultimate Ears, Porter & Davies Monitoring and Protection Racket Cases,
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Photography by Rob Connor, Ruby Gaunt, Emily Marco Covecchio & Sophie Scott.
