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| Sean Noonan by Linda Pedroso |
Sean Noonan describes himself as a speaking drummer; he is a composer, and rhythmic storyteller whose music defies categorization. Drawing on the traditions of wandering minstrels and African griots, he weaves imaginative narratives through a distinctive polyrhythmic language that blends voice and percussion into his “fifth limb”.
His piece, The Drummer of Tedworth, is a wild, immersive journey blending rock opera and punk-
jazz energy, blurring concert, theatre, and ritual, and the recording of it with the London Symphony Orchestra was released on Friday 20 February.
The work’s premiere takes place on Monday 30 March 2026 at Milton Court in London when Sean Noonan will be joined St Paul’s Sinfonia and Darren Bloom. The music is described as a fusion of jazz, contemporary classical, and global folklore in an immersive zany performance.
A concerto for anyone who’s ever doubted existence… and laughed anyway.
Academically accomplished, Noonan holds a Doctorate from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, a Master’s in Composition from the Aaron Copland School of Music, and a Bachelor’s in Music Education from Berklee College of Music. His doctoral thesis, Rhythmic Storytelling with Drum and Voice (Guildhall School of Music & Drama), explores the intersection of narrative and percussion and is available via City, University of London’s open access archive. Early formative experiences included backing Hollywood legend Marni Nixon.
The recording of The Drummer of Tedworth is available from Sean Noonan’s website, tickets for the concert are available from the Guildhall School’s website.
