The 2010 Drummer of Tomorrow winner - Bartek Pawlus surprised the crowd with his amazing drum solo.

Drummer of Tomorrow is a biannual multi-regional drum competition initiated by Mapex for drummers of all ages, first held in 2007. To date, three winners have emerged from the contest: Thomas Heinz from Germany for the 2008 "Groove" category, Julien Goepp from France for the 2008 "Technique" category, and this year (after the abolishment of individual categories), the 2010 overall champion Bartek Pawlus from Poland.

Drummer of Tomorrow is not about playing harder, faster, and louder: as the name suggests, it is primarily about nurturing the next generation of talent. Mapex offers promising drummers the opportunity to perform on stage in a professional environment, the chance to meet, exchange ideas, and share experiences with other musicians, and a ticket to a possible drumming career. The educational process remains the driving motivation behind the event.

A great contest's final should be held in a great location and event. This year, Mapex selected MESSE Frankfurt as the perfect choice, connecting music addicts from all over the world to appreciate the magic of drums, and its crucial role in live music. The five finalists all each accompanied a live performance of a song, as well as playing a two-minute drum solo to try and impress the judges: all titans of the trade, including Dom Famularo, Mylious Johnson, Randy Black, Waldo Madera and Rashid Williams. In the end, the 20-year-old Bartek Pawlus stood out due to his exceptional performance. Check out the footage and witness this incredible young talent for yourself!

Crazy/Seal - 2010 Drummer of Tomorrow champion Bartek Pawlus song performance

2010 Drummer of Tomorrow champion Bartek Pawlus solo performance

Previously, this contest has only been held in European countries such as Germany, Spain, Italy, Poland, France, UK, among others; however, Mapex is now trying to expand the contest from Europe to other continents in the very near future. If you reckon you have the passion and skills, it doesn't matter if you're a young or young-at-heart drummer; this is something you can't miss!

To find more, please go to http://www.youtube.com/user/DrummersOfTomorrow


The 2010 Drummer of Tomorrow Finalists - from left to right: Manuel dI Camillo (Germany), Ben Clark (UK), Simone Morettin (Italy), Bartek Pawlus (Poland), Geoffroy Sourp (France)


Bartek Pawlus was awarded the top prize. From left to right: Dom Famularo, Bartek Pawlus, Nelson Lan (Mapex Drums)