Bio

Justin Tambini is an award-winning musician who is recognised for his deeply expressive, spirited, individual, and exciting playing.

London-based drummer, composer and educator Justin Tambini’s fiery spontaneity, creativity and infectious sense of groove has led to performances and collaborations with a wide range of established musicians and creatives in the U.K. and beyond. Justin has performed across the globe with artists encompassing a broad range of styles, from jazz legends through to musical theatre and showbiz royalty, classical crossover artists and up-and-coming folk musicians. Justin has worked with Ian Shaw, Julian Clary, John Cameron Mitchell, Kerry Ellis, Jeff Wayne, Mason Alexander Park, Rob Houchen, Trevor Ashley, Telly Leung, La Voix, Courtney Act, Sharon D. Clarke, Dominic Alldis, Andy Cleyndert, Nigel Price, Ross Stanley, Laura Jurd, Iain Ballamy, amongst many others. He has toured many exciting venues and festivals: playing in intimate jazz club settings, including sold out main shows at Ronnie Scott's at age 22; large-scale concert halls and theatres such as the Royal Festival Hall; and the many dazzling theatre and cabaret venues of London’s West End. Justin’s distinctive feel and sensitive touch are propelled by a fearlessness that captivates audiences and keeps him highly in-demand as a sideman, session musician and bandleader in his own right.

Whether fronting his own ensemble or bringing his unique voice as a sideman, Justin brings to the stage passion coupled with clear musical sensibility. Integrity, an open heart and the technique to serve his musical imagination: whether leaping from gentle cymbal taps to explosive drum rolls or laying down a solid backbeat, Justin Tambini’s playing wells up from a deep desire to connect with people.

Justin completed his MA at the Royal Academy of Music, awarded a scholarship, and graduated with a distinction, where he studied with many of the best musicians in the world. His main teacher was Martin France.

Justin even appeared on TV for 5 minutes of fame as an actor-musician extra in the BBC’s This Time with Alan Partridge (season 2, episode 5).

What people are saying…

“He can play absolutely anything on drums with style and flair!”

—John Cameron Mitchell (Tony award-winning artist)

“Justin Tambini has a rare combination of skills - a phenomenal technique, sensitivity as well as power, and an openness and warmth that makes him an invaluable asset in any band.”

—Dominic Alldis (acclaimed musician, conductor, Steinway artist and Honorary Associate of the Royal Academy of Music)