A TOP drummer who performs with one of the world's most legendary composers returned to her roots to inspire young musicians.

Aicha Djidjelli, was born in Colchester and grew up in Halstead, where she went to Ramsey Academy.

She got hooked on drumming after playing a friend’s kit.

After learning to play she was soon gigging at venues throughout the area.

She now performs with German film score giant Hans Zimmer’s live touring band, and has also appeared alongside Johnny Marr, of The Smiths, Pharrell Williams and Craig David.

Aicha’s extensive work has also included being the session drummer on the X Factor and musical curator for the movie Powder Room.

On Saturday she staged an afternoon workshop at Braintree Community Music Centre for young drummers and musicians in the area.

It focused on percussion techniques used on the Superman Man of Steel soundtrack written by Hans Zimmer.

The workshop was followed by a presentation about Aicha’s career, attended by friends and family of students attending the workshop.

It included questions from the audience and Aicha performing live drums to Hans Zimmer backing tracks, followed by the young drum students performing Man of Steel with Aicha.

Aicha told the students: “You have to step out of your comfort zone. If you are in your comfort zone you are not challenging yourself and not progressing.”

The workshop was run with Essex Music Service in Braintree.

Spokesman George Webb said: “It was an incredible opportunity for young drummers in the Braintree District to learn and perform alongside a world class drummer, who grew up in Halstead and developed her skills in bands playing throughout the district.”

Braintree Community Music Centre provides music lessons as well as a Young Voices vocal group and an All-In-Band rock and pop band for eight to 16-year-olds on Saturdays, from 9am to 1pm at the I-Construct Innovation Hub, Springwood Drive.

For more information, visit essexmusichub.org.uk.