Rodrigo was born in 1984 in Ta¼bingen, Germany. He grew up in Colombia in Barranquilla Music has always been a part Of Rodrigos life; he started playing traditional Latin-American percussion instruments at a young Age, moving on to take lessons in violin, piano, musical theory and drums.He finished his studies in "Jazz Drums" at the University in Cologne Germany. He currently lives in Germany and in Colombia doing own projects, playing as a sideman with important musicians of the scene in Europe USA and South-America such as Edmar Castaneda , and giving workshops for Percussion and Drums, based on Latin rhythms, jazz and pop. His expertise and creativity have allowed him to take part in several productions (drums & percussion) such as the German National Jazz Orchestra with Peter Herbolzheimer, Mark Medlock & Dieter Bohlen, Wolfgang Niedecken(Bap), Jorg Reiter, Dave King, Mannheim Jazz Orchestra, WDR FUNKHAUS ORCHESTRA ,University of Music Cologne - Big Band, NDR Big Band , HR (frankfurt Radio)Big Band, Kicks & Sticks Big Band, Heavytones (TV Total , Pro7 Germany), Miami Nights Musical, Lion King Musical (Disney), Dirty Dancing Musical, Tania Maria, Marialy Pacheco , Samuel Torres , Benny Golson (Jazz Messengers), Joe Gallardo, Mansour Jafari (persian Popstar), Edmar Castaneda (Harp- Jazz Star) , Paquito D Rivera and many more.
Rodrigo Villalon
Independent / Edmar Castañeda Trio
Rodrigo
Villalon
IN 3
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Most memorable Next-Level Performance
I remember my first Show on the Lion King Musical. It was a big challenge playing in front of 2000 people and the whole production depending on your skills. After that i felt that anything is possible. -
What Drives Your Creativity?
My inspiration comes to me when i get connected to God and to the musicians. I also get inspired by the sound of my drums and cymbals. It reminds me the sound of the greatest records from my favorite drummers. -
Why do you choose Vic Firth?
Vic firth gives me the confidence i need in my hands and my sound to create my music. It gives me the perfect Weight for my technique.
BEHIND THE KIT
