‘Being a beginner later in life was refreshing’

Helen McCallum, 65, is a retired lecturer and lives in Barnet, north-west London.

‘Do you fancy coming along to an evening class?’ my friend Shanne asked. ‘I’m going to learn the drums!’ I agreed instantly. But not because I wanted to learn; Shanne is such a good friend that the idea of spending an evening a week with her sounded wonderful – it didn’t really matter what we’d be doing.

It was January 2017, I’d just split from my partner of nine years, so I also wanted to keep myself occupied. Despite being musical – I play the guitar and write songs – I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy playing drums. ‘Perhaps you’ll be able to beat out your stress!’ friends suggested.

But it’s not banging the drums hard that releases tension, as I’d thought. When drumming, you have to use all your limbs and concentrate in order to keep to a rhythm – you simply can’t think of anything else. It was a fabulous escape.

Perhaps the most surprising thing was the fact I loved being a beginner among beginners again – something I realised

I hadn’t been since I was a child. You’re all starting from square one, and there’s no judgement or competitiveness.

Our teacher, Alan McCulloch at Camden Working Men’s College, was brilliant, and although he always encouraged accuracy, he had the patience of a saint; even helping me read drum scores when previously

I’ve struggled with sheet music.

While the pandemic put paid to my evening class, that drum class changed me. Not only can I keep a decent rhythm on a drum kit, I’ve learnt the benefits that come from attending a class and mixing with people you’d otherwise never meet.

I’m hoping to sign up to a Cuban drumming class soon and whereas last time I was a little apprehensive, this time I’m looking forward to meeting other learners and discovering another brand-new skill.

‘It was a fabulous escape’