Dafnis Prieto Concerts

Experience Dafnis Prieto

Dafnis Prieto is a Grammy-winning Cuban-American drummer, composer, and bandleader renowned for his innovative contributions to contemporary jazz and Afro-Cuban music. Born in Havana, Cuba, Prieto began playing drums at a young age and later moved to the United States to study at the Manhattan School of Music. His career spans over two decades, during which he has become celebrated for blending traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms with modern jazz improvisation, creating a distinctive sound that pushes genre boundaries.

Prieto’s dynamic drumming style combines technical mastery with deep rhythmic complexity, making him one of the most influential percussionists in modern jazz. He has released multiple critically acclaimed albums as a leader, including "Back to the Sunset," "Triangles and Circles," and "Transparency," each showcasing his skillful compositions and virtuosic performances. Beyond his solo work, Prieto has collaborated with jazz legends such as Paquito D’Rivera, Chucho Valdés, and Dave Douglas.

In addition to winning a Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album in 2011, Dafnis Prieto is also recognized for his educational contributions as a professor at New York University’s Steinhardt School.