Barthen, René (NL)

René – Experienced drummer with an impressive background

René started drumming at the age of six. After four years of private lessons, five years at the music school in Leiden, and six years of drum school, he studied with legends like Gregg Bissonette, Simon Phillips and Dave Weckl at the Drummers Collective in New York.

In 1983, he joined one of the most popular cover bands in the Dutch “Bollenstreek” region: the Bootlegs. Over the years, René gained extensive live experience with various cover bands and performed as a support act for major Dutch artists such as Golden Earring, The Scene and De Dijk. He also appeared on national TV and radio with his own bands.

René was part of the nine-member "Fun Party Dance Band", performing across the country and accompanying international stars such as Donna Summer, The Four Tops, Jocelyn Brown and many more Dance Classics icons.

Currently, René is active in two new bands and works on regional studio projects. He is a promising drummer with a wealth of knowledge about drums and drumming techniques.