Alex Acuna was born and raised in Lima, Peru. A self-educated musician, he was inspired by his father and older brothers (all of whom were musicians) by the age of four. By the time Alex turned ten, he was already playing in local bands. As a teenager, he was one of Peru's most accomplished session drummers, performing on many recording projects for artists as well as film and television productions. Alex also earned a glowing reputation for his skills as a live performer.
At age eighteen Alex was chosen by the great Latin band leader Perez Prado to join his big band. It was with the Prado band that Alex first traveled to the United States. Several years later he began studying at the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music, playing for three years as classical percussionist with the Symphony Orchestra for the Pablo Casals Summer Festivals.
In 1974, Alex moved to Las Vegas, Nevada and there, he played with such greats as Elvis Presley and Diana Ross. Following this chapter of his career, Alex became both drummer and percussionist for one of the most innovative jazz groups of our time - Weather Report - recording 'Black Market' and the famous 'Heavy Weather' album.
Alex next moved to Los Angeles, California in 1978. Here, Alex quickly earned the position of valued session drummer and percussionist for recordings, television and motion pictures. He became the recipient of many awards and honors including the Emeritus MVP award from the L.A. chapter of NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) and of the 'Latin/Brazilian Percussionist' category of Modern Drummer's 'Readers Poll' for five years running. His countless album credits and live performances are comprised of such diverse artist as U2, Paul McCartney, Al Jarreau, Joni Mitchell, Yellow Jackets, Ella Fitzgerald, Andre Crouch, Chic Corea, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Chucho Valdez, Joe Zawinul, Placido Domingo, Julio Iglesias, Whitney Houston, Seal, Sergio Mendes, Luis Miguel, Koinonia, and Integrity Music productions around the world with artist such as Ron Kenoly. Alex has recorded film scores under the direction of Dave Grusin, Alan Silvestry, Michele Legrand, Bill Conti, Michel Colombier, Marvin Hamlish, Maurice Jarre, Mark Isham, John Williams, etc., etc., etc.
Alex is widely known as a gifted teacher and clinician of drums and percusion. He has recorded four of his own instructional videos and travels internationally teaching and giving seminars.
Alex's South American and Caribbean roots and understanding of contemporary and classical music make him a complete and skilled master musician. This is evidenced in Alex's solo albums, 'Alex Acuna and the Unknown',Tolu's 'Rumberos Poetry' and a soon to be released percussion album with master percussionists of this generation.
This year will also see the release of two CD roms for Spectrasonics, his productions of several South American projects and a new Christian jazz album by 'Staff'. His playing is characterized by innovation, energy and pure heart. It is easy to see why Alex Acuna is one of the most sought-after musicians of our time. Alex recognizes his music as a gift from the Lord and gives all the glory to God!
'Senor' includes Alex palying with some of the World's finest musicians including; Abraham Laboriel (Bass) & Justo Almario (Woodwinds) and Ramon Stagnaro (Guitar). Lead vocals are from Alex's daughter Regina.
|
