Music Academy at Tropics68

Welcome to the Music Academy at Tropics68!

Come join us at Tropics 68 for day of music and learning. This is a weekly programme, running every Saturday from 10am until 2pm. Lessons in:

Piano - Ernesto Estruch

Percussion - Randy Lester

Violin - Ernesto Estruch

Bass - Jimmy

Double Bass - Miles Danso

Drums - Tansay Omar

Guitar - Jimmy Martinez

and more. Please enquire if your preferred instrument is not on the list.

We also offer vocal correction lessons with Dr Charmain Elliott on Sundays at 2pm.

This programme will include a monthly performance by the musicians coming for lessons, jam sessions and open mics for all to enjoy.

Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, child or adult, local or not, there's something for everyone at the Music Academy.

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More about the musicians:

ERNESTO ESTRUCH (Violin and Piano)

Ernesto Estruch is a Cuban professional musician and educator based in London. With 15 years of experience teaching violin and piano, he has worked across schools and private settings to help students build strong musical foundations. He guides learners of all levels, preparing them for performance, technique development, and A‑Level examinations with clear, patient instruction. Ernesto combines a deep love of music with practical exam preparation, helping each student reach their individual goals and gain confidence as musicians.

An experienced performer, he has toured and played internationally with a variety of artists, bringing real-world insight and artistic inspiration into his teaching. Passionate about music education and performance, Ernesto creates engaging lessons that develop musical skill, expression, and confidence.

TANSAY OMAR (Drums)

Tansay Omar has music flowing through his blood. The South Londoner picked up his first drumsticks as a child, playing pots and pans. By thirteen he had his first drum kit. Three years later, he was a member of Turkish wedding band Dalgalar, performing with them most weekends until he was 21.

It wasn’t long before the stars came knocking, eager to hire Tansay for their bands. He has drummed for the likes of Boy George, Bjork, Galliano, Jackie Graham, Gwen Mcray, and Lisa Stansfield all in their heyday, often touring the world with them.

DENNY MARTINEZ HERNANDEZ or JIMMY (Bass and Guitar)

With over two decades of experience in music education, community arts, and youth engagement, he has worked across universities, schools, and community organisations delivering high-quality teaching in music performance and creative expression. His work has included lecturing in Pop Performance at the University of West London, providing one-on-one and group tuition in guitar and bass at Westminster City School, and running creative music workshops for children and young people through Malecon Productions Ltd, where I have directed and led numerous educational and cultural projects. I have consistently demonstrated strong organisational skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt my teaching methods to suit diverse learners and age groups.

His experience extends to leading large-scale workshops and performances in primary and secondary schools, including projects funded by the National Foundation of Youth Music and performances at major public events such as the Lord Mayor’s Show. He has taught both in the UK and abroad, including at the Vocational School of Art in Havana, Cuba, developing innovative, inclusive, and culturally enriching learning experiences. His teaching philosophy centres on nurturing creativity, confidence, and collaboration through music, helping students develop both artistic skill and personal growth.