Bobby Sanabria Concerts

Experience Bobby Sanabria

Bobby Sanabria is a highly respected multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, educator, and bandleader deeply rooted in the traditions of Afro-Latin jazz and hard bop. Born in New York City in 1957, Sanabria honed his skills playing with jazz legends like Tito Puente, Machito, and Mongo Santamaría early in his career – experiences profoundly shaping his musical identity.

He’s renowned for his virtuosic drumming, but also proficient on piano, percussion and vocals. Sanabria leads the Bobby Sanabria Septet & Big Band, consistently delivering dynamic performances and critically acclaimed recordings. His album *Big Band Urban Renewal* (2003) earned a Grammy nomination for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album.

Sanabria's arrangements often reimagine classic compositions by artists like Duke Ellington and Gil Evans through an Afro-Latin lens. He’s dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of Latin music while simultaneously pushing creative boundaries. A committed educator, he has held positions at institutions like the New School and Juilliard. He frequently lectures on Afro-Latin music history and performance practice, solidifying his role as a vital figure in contemporary jazz.