Ignacio Berroa Tickets

Havana-born drummer Ignacio Berroa, born July 8, 1953, is renowned for bridging Afro-Cuban music with American jazz. After moving to New York in 1980, he joined Dizzy Gillespie’s groups in 1981, helping forge a musical link described by Gillespie as a rare bridge between two worlds. Berroa has led notable albums such as Codes (2006, Blue Note), Heritage and Passion (2014, 5Passion), and Straight Ahead from Havana (2017, Codes Drum Music). His work spans performance, leadership, and education, making him a key figure for fans exploring the convergence of Havana rhythm and modern jazz across the United States and beyond.

Berroa’s career includes his role as a drummer for Dizzy Gillespie’s United Nations Orchestra, with the ensemble’s Live at the Royal Festival Hall earning the Grammy for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album in 1991. His debut as a bandleader earned a Grammy nomination for Codes, and he was recognized with a Danish Music Award for Best International Jazz Album in 2007. He remains active in performance and teaching, offering online lessons and authoring Groovin’ in Clave and A New Way of Groovin’. Upcoming highlights include a September 23, 2025 performance with the Blair Big Band at Ingram Hall, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN. Follow Ignacio Berroa for ongoing tours, clinics, and master classes. For updates, connect with him on social media and visit his official site: