“Danilo Pérez is a man with some serious jazz cred. The Panamanian pianist got his start playing with Dizzy Gillespie, and continued with Wayne Shorter. As a composer and bandleader himself, he’s practically peerless.” – NPR
For nearly four decades, Panamanian pianist and composer Danilo Pérez has stood at the forefront of contemporary jazz, celebrated for his boundless imagination and profound artistry.
In this rare solo performance in The Neilson, Pérez brings his signature blend of virtuosity and soul to an intimate chamber setting, inviting audiences into a deeply personal journey of sound that bridges the gap between jazz and classical music.
A GRAMMY Award-winner and UNESCO Artist for Peace, Pérez has collaborated with jazz legends including Dizzy Gillespie, Wayne Shorter, Wynton Marsalis and many others.
A long time member of the legendary Wayne Shorter Quartet, alongside John Patitucci and Brian Blade from 2000 until Shorter’s passing in 2023, Pérez helped shape a new era of improvised music — one defined by daring exploration and emotional depth.
Rooted in his Panamanian heritage and enriched by West African rhythms and European impressionism, Pérez’s music is a celebration of cultural connection and human unity. Expect a masterclass in improvisation, storytelling, and musical dialogue from one of jazz’s most compelling voices.
