Danilo Pérez

Danilo Perez, a Grammy Award-winning pianist-composer, is a social activist and educator widely regarded as one of the most creative and influential artists in contemporary music. His recent group, called Global Messengers, incorporates Panamanian folk roots with West African and Middle Eastern influences. Pérez has released 12 albums, earning him worldwide acclaim and multiple awards, including the 2018 United States Fellowship and the 2009 Smithsonian Legacy Award. In 2001, he joined the Wayne Shorter Quartet with bassist John Patitucci and drummer Brian Blade to form one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 21st century. As a composer, Pérez has been commissioned by Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center, among others. He currently serves as UNESCO Artist for Peace, Cultural Ambassador of Panama, Founder and Artistic Director of the Panama Jazz Festival, and the Berklee Global Jazz Institute. Pérez is a Yamaha and Mack Avenue Artist.