Ernst Bier

Ernst Bier, studied drums with Billy Brooks, Charlie Persip, Vernell Fournier and Elvin Jones. From 1982-1987 he lived and worked in NY City. After his return from the States, Ernst lived first near Cologne and then in Berlin from 1992. The list of musicians he has worked with reads like a Who’s Who of jazz. With his sensitive playing, his dedication and his constructive manner, he has become a highly esteemed and sought-after drummer. The Bonner Rundschau attests him “musicality and playfulness”. When he, like many European jazz musicians, felt the urge to “go back to the roots”, Ernst Bier consequently immersed himself in the New York scene from 1982 to 1987 – from here also came the first contacts with his long-time musical companions and friends such as Perry Robinson, Mack Goldsbury, Ed Schuller and Herb Robertson.

Whether with the Perry Robinson Quartet, the Christoph Adams Trio or stars such as Attila Zoller, Chet Baker, Lester Bowie, Walter Norris, Nigel Kennedy, Scott Hamilton, Sonny Fortune, Ernst Bier is usually involved not simply as a performing drummer, but always unfolds his enormous organizational talent in addition to sound musical input. To date he has recorded 9 CDs under his own name and has participated as a sideman on 36 CDs.

Rhythm, groove and drumming, inspire every generation, whether for fun, as a varied hobby or as a fascinating profession.

I teach children, teens and adults from beginner to advanced. It takes practice to become a good drummer. Starting with percussion techniques, rhythm figures and standard rhythms up to professional techniques, training is inevitable My goal is to offer the student as individual, versatile and interesting lessons as possible, dealing with all areas of today’s music, promoting fun and enthusiasm for the instrument as well as band- and song-oriented playing in order to prepare him optimally for playing with other musicians. Beginners as well as experienced players and advanced players will find all the prerequisites to learn and develop almost all aspects of modern drumming during the weekly lessons (duration: 45/60 minutes). The lessons are held in German as well as in English.

The drums also play an important role in music education, e.g., in the reduction of aggression. Especially with younger children, the drums can also be used to teach basic musical understanding such as beat and rhythm. Due to the quick sense of achievement, the motivation level of beginners is very high. The versatility and complexity of playing the drums can create great long-term motivation.

My room is equipped with two drums and a modern technical system allow the student e.g. to play via headphones etc.