John Smolinski

I came to study hand percussion: Congas, Bongos, African drums late in life, but always had a deep appreciation for Afro-Cuban, Latin, African and Brazilian, Middle Eastern, World music. My passion for hand drumming must've been noticeable as it opened doors and I was so fortunate and am so grateful to have gotten to play professionally at a late stage in life. To name one event The Ottawa International Bluesfest some years ago now. Currently I play with various fellow jazz musicians in my hometown and get to pick up a few bucks to supplement my retirement doing gigs now and again. It's been a blessing!