Ivan Llanes
Ivan Llanes is a Cuban-American percussionist and singer, recognized as one of the most dynamic musicians of his generation. His debut album La Vida Misma, released on March 22, 2024 via Vydia, is a deeply personal work that reflects his Cuban roots, artistic evolution, and life journey.
Originally from Camagüey, Cuba, Ivan has earned acclaim in New York City for his versatile percussion skills, distinctive voice, and creative songwriting. He is a featured member of jazz pianist Matthew Whitaker’s quintet, with whom he has performed at renowned jazz festivals around the world.
As lead vocalist for the Latin supergroup People of Earth, Ivan has shared the stage with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and New World Symphony. In New York, his band has performed at celebrated venues including Joe’s Pub, National Sawdust, and Times Square in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Internationally, Ivan has brought his project Ivan Llanes & Friends to major festivals such as the Festival Internacional de Percussão “2 de Julho” in Salvador, Brazil, and the Festival Internacional Jazz Plaza in Havana, Cuba.
Before relocating to the U.S. in 2011, Ivan toured extensively with famed Cuban flutist Maraca, performing throughout Cuba, Europe, and the United States. Since then, he has collaborated with an impressive roster of Grammy and Emmy-winning artists, including Arturo O’Farrill, Nella, and Katreese Barnes.
Llanes is sponsored by Latin Percussion – DW, Vicfirth, Paiste, and Ultimate Ears.
Originally from Camagüey, Cuba, Ivan has earned acclaim in New York City for his versatile percussion skills, distinctive voice, and creative songwriting. He is a featured member of jazz pianist Matthew Whitaker’s quintet, with whom he has performed at renowned jazz festivals around the world.
As lead vocalist for the Latin supergroup People of Earth, Ivan has shared the stage with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and New World Symphony. In New York, his band has performed at celebrated venues including Joe’s Pub, National Sawdust, and Times Square in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Internationally, Ivan has brought his project Ivan Llanes & Friends to major festivals such as the Festival Internacional de Percussão “2 de Julho” in Salvador, Brazil, and the Festival Internacional Jazz Plaza in Havana, Cuba.
Before relocating to the U.S. in 2011, Ivan toured extensively with famed Cuban flutist Maraca, performing throughout Cuba, Europe, and the United States. Since then, he has collaborated with an impressive roster of Grammy and Emmy-winning artists, including Arturo O’Farrill, Nella, and Katreese Barnes.
Llanes is sponsored by Latin Percussion – DW, Vicfirth, Paiste, and Ultimate Ears.
Hybrid Kit (Timbal & Drum Set)
Session Description:
This dynamic clinic/performance offers a deep dive into the art of playing a hybrid percussion kit, combining the timbal and drum set, and explores its versatility across a variety of world music styles. Through live demonstrations, I will guide the audience on a journey of discovery, starting with the origins and development of this innovative kit and its unique application in diverse musical contexts.
Drawing from my debut album, I will showcase how I use the hybrid kit in Latin Jazz compositions featuring 4/4 and 6/8 time signatures, as well as in the fusion of Brazilian music, Pop, Soul, R&B, and Electronic genres. Attendees will gain insight into my personal approach to integrating these musical styles, emphasizing adaptability and creativity within a unified percussive setup.
A key focus will be on soloing techniques that blend the distinct languages of the timbal and drum set. I’ll demonstrate how to merge these sounds seamlessly while maintaining an organized approach to phrasing and improvisation. Additionally, I will highlight techniques for developing independence, enabling players to create rhythmic patterns with one limb while improvising freely with another—eliminating the need for accompaniment during vamps or repetitive patterns.
This session is designed to inspire and equip drummers and percussionists with practical tools to navigate the hybrid kit, encouraging exploration and innovation in their own playing. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, this clinic promises to expand your understanding of rhythm and unlock new creative possibilities.
Drawing from my debut album, I will showcase how I use the hybrid kit in Latin Jazz compositions featuring 4/4 and 6/8 time signatures, as well as in the fusion of Brazilian music, Pop, Soul, R&B, and Electronic genres. Attendees will gain insight into my personal approach to integrating these musical styles, emphasizing adaptability and creativity within a unified percussive setup.
A key focus will be on soloing techniques that blend the distinct languages of the timbal and drum set. I’ll demonstrate how to merge these sounds seamlessly while maintaining an organized approach to phrasing and improvisation. Additionally, I will highlight techniques for developing independence, enabling players to create rhythmic patterns with one limb while improvising freely with another—eliminating the need for accompaniment during vamps or repetitive patterns.
This session is designed to inspire and equip drummers and percussionists with practical tools to navigate the hybrid kit, encouraging exploration and innovation in their own playing. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, this clinic promises to expand your understanding of rhythm and unlock new creative possibilities.
Session Category:
- World
Date:
Friday, November 14, 2025
Time:
12:00 PM
Location:
Room 101
Session Type:
Clinic / Performance
Session Format:
Live
