I run Haldane Drums, Australia’s first steam bent drum company which is launching today (25 May).
Why do you do it?
As a drummer myself, and a life-long woodworker, I’ve always wanted to build drums. It wasn’t until late last year that I noticed a distinct gap in the Australian drum market – no one was building steam bent drums.
After doing a huge amount of research, I found that no one in Australia had ever made them and so I began researching and testing the method, and here I am today offering them to drummers far and wide for sale.
Steam bent drums look and sound amazing being that they’re constructed from one piece of timber with very minimal glue. They have great tone, resonance and response and the construction method has been around for a great deal of time.
What do you love about the city you live in?
The homely feel and relaxed nature of Brisbane is what keeps me here. I’ve travelled to many other cities around the world and at the end of each trip I’ve always been genuinely excited to come home to Brisbane and wake up to the sound of birds hanging out in the many trees we have in the suburbs, and go for a walk down to my local café or bar and hang out with mates. It’s a very easy-going place to live.
Where did you go for your last holiday?
Moreton Island with my girlfriend. It’s stunningly beautiful and only a short drive to get on the ferry. I highly recommend anyone living in or travelling through Brisbane to check it out.
What's your favourite item of clothing?
My green corduroy shirt that you can probably see me wearing in the photos that accompany this Q&A. It keeps me warm and makes me feel rugged and ready for action.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid?
'Dragonball Z' by far.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us?
I’ve mastered an awesome chicken and leek pie recipe over the years that my family love, so probably that.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
To be patient and enjoy the process of doing something the right way. The feeling you get when you complete a project, practice your instrument or finish a drum and you’ve taken your time, left no stone unturned and have a pristine end product just can’t be matched.
Are you happy with your work/ life balance?
I’ve been doing quite a lot of work lately, but the work I’m doing is extremely satisfying. So I’d still have to say that yes, I am happy with my work-life balance.
How do you define success?
Making my own way in life.
