About us

  • Dumfries Drum Day is a grassroots, not-for-profit community group run entirely by a passionate team of local musicians and volunteers. Born from a love of rhythm and a desire to see the local music scene thrive, our mission is simple: to bring world-class drumming talent, industry-leading gear exhibitors, inspiring educational experiences and exciting new music directly to the South of Scotland.

    This is, and always will be, a local event with the community interest at its very heart.

  • We bridge the gap between regional music lovers and the wider drumming industry. By transforming spaces like the Loreburn Hall into vibrant, high-energy hubs for a single day, we provide an accessible platform where anyone can learn, connect, and grow.

    Our annual event features:

    • Masterclasses & Clinics: Inspiring performances by top-tier professional touring drummers.

    • Educational Workshops: Interactive sessions led by some of the nation’s best educators.

    • Gear Expos: A dedicated space to network, test out and buy cutting-edge equipment from premium and boutique brands.

    • Live Performances: A high-octane evening concert celebrating some of the freshest new bands.

  • We believe that drumming should be open to absolutely everyone—regardless of age, background, or skill level. Whether you are an absolute beginner picking up sticks for the first time, a lifelong player looking to sharpen your technique, or a music fan coming along for an incredible live show, you have a place at Dumfries Drum Day.

    Because we operate on a strict not-for-profit basis, we do not answer to corporate shareholders. Every single penny generated from ticket sales, sponsorships, donations and our grand gear raffle is directly reinvested right back into the community. We use these proceeds to expand local music education, provide accessible community rhythm workshops, and secure the long-term future of the festival.

Our Team

We bring different perspectives to the table, but we’re all performing drummers with a passion for the instrument and music.

Meet the team

Bob Irving

Founder & Chair

Bob started the first Dumfries Drum Day in 2023 and organises the event each year. He performs with Elias T. Hoth as well as Cloud 9, This Summer he’ll be filling in for Andrew Scott headlining Tiree Music Festival with Skipinnish .

Bob also teaches both private lessons and as part of D&G Instrumental Music Service. Many of his students have played the Drum Day.

Fergus Henderson

Treasurer

Fergus is a well known drummer in the Dumfries music scene, You’ll find him currently performing with The Lucky Doves and The Meanies.

An avid electronic drum enthusiast, Fergus spends time recording drums with his electronic kits in his drum studio for artists like Faded. Fergus’ enthusiasm for drums is unmatched and if he’s not dialling in his electronic drum kit he’ll be working on his chops.

Sandy Sweetman

Secretary

Over the years Sandy has played with bands such as the Bay City Rollers and you’ll find him currently performing with Pedro & the Pirates.

Sandy is well known in Dumfries for both his AV company SW Audio and for operating the Loreburn Hall. In 2023 Sandy won the Dumfries & Galloway Life Awards Business Person of the Year. With his technical and business knowledge Sandy is an invaluable member of the team.