Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Prim.
Hi Daniel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Daniel Prim
Latin Grammy-winning Drummer, Percussionist, and Educator
Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Daniel Prim is a highly skilled drummer, percussionist, and educator with expertise in jazz, Afro-Venezuelan, and Latin music. His musical journey began early in life, shaped by a family environment where music was central to daily life. Daniel’s formal education started at the José Reyna Music School at the age of eleven, followed by advanced studies at the Simón Bolívar Conservatory of Music, a core institution within the National Youth and Children’s Orchestras of Venezuela.
Since his formal training, Daniel has performed extensively across the Americas and Europe, bringing his distinctive musical voice to diverse audiences. As an educator, he has taught master classes in Afro-Venezuelan music at prestigious institutions such as Berklee College of Music and Manhattan School of Music, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
In 2020, Daniel was honored to contribute to PAUSA, Ricky Martin’s Billboard-topping EP, which also featured notable artists like Bad Bunny and Residente. The EP went on to win Best Pop Vocal Album at the 21st Annual Latin Grammy Awards. Daniel has also been a featured percussionist at high-profile events such as the Bosphorus Cymbal Fest and Lincoln Center’s American Songbook series for artist Ella Bric.
In addition to his solo work, Daniel co-founded Caracas Trio, a collective with fellow musicians Juan Diego Villalobos and Gabriel Chakarji that blends Venezuelan roots music with contemporary jazz. Caracas Trio has performed at renowned venues across New York City, including a residency at Black Cat in San Francisco, and appeared alongside acclaimed saxophonist Miguel Zenón and on NPR. The trio has also performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Daniel’s debut album, Home (2024), was released with his ensemble Daniel Prim y Su Parampampan and features collaborators such as Adam O’Farrill, Juanma Trujillo, and Manuel Márquez. A unique fusion of Afro-Venezuelan folklore and jazz improvisation, Home explores the cultural and political tensions of contemporary Venezuela while celebrating its people’s resilience and vibrancy.
Currently based in New York City, Daniel performs regularly with a wide range of respected musicians, including Luis Perdomo, Stafford Hunter, Ella Bric, Etienne Charles, Roberto Quintero, Jorge Glem, Roy Wooten, Edmar Castañeda, Adam O’Farrill, Dayna Stephens, Yunior Terry, and more. He has graced some of New York’s most iconic stages, including Carnegie Hall and Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, consistently bringing his dynamic percussion to the forefront of the city’s vibrant music scene.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being an immigrant, far from my family and speaking a language that isn’t your own isn’t easy
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Daniel Prim
Latin Grammy-winning Drummer, Percussionist, and Educator
Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Daniel Prim is a highly skilled drummer, percussionist, and educator with expertise in jazz, Afro-Venezuelan, and Latin music. His musical journey began early in life, shaped by a family environment where music was central to daily life. Daniel’s formal education started at the José Reyna Music School at the age of eleven, followed by advanced studies at the Simón Bolívar Conservatory of Music, a core institution within the National Youth and Children’s Orchestras of Venezuela.
Since his formal training, Daniel has performed extensively across the Americas and Europe, bringing his distinctive musical voice to diverse audiences. As an educator, he has taught master classes in Afro-Venezuelan music at prestigious institutions such as Berklee College of Music and Manhattan School of Music, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
In 2020, Daniel was honored to contribute to PAUSA, Ricky Martin’s Billboard-topping EP, which also featured notable artists like Bad Bunny and Residente. The EP went on to win Best Pop Vocal Album at the 21st Annual Latin Grammy Awards. Daniel has also been a featured percussionist at high-profile events such as the Bosphorus Cymbal Fest and Lincoln Center’s American Songbook series for artist Ella Bric.
In addition to his solo work, Daniel co-founded Caracas Trio, a collective with fellow musicians Juan Diego Villalobos and Gabriel Chakarji that blends Venezuelan roots music with contemporary jazz. Caracas Trio has performed at renowned venues across New York City, including a residency at Black Cat in San Francisco, and appeared alongside acclaimed saxophonist Miguel Zenón and on NPR. The trio has also performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Daniel’s debut album, Home (2024), was released with his ensemble Daniel Prim y Su Parampampan and features collaborators such as Adam O’Farrill, Juanma Trujillo, and Manuel Márquez. A unique fusion of Afro-Venezuelan folklore and jazz improvisation, Home explores the cultural and political tensions of contemporary Venezuela while celebrating its people’s resilience and vibrancy.
Currently based in New York City, Daniel performs regularly with a wide range of respected musicians, including Luis Perdomo, Stafford Hunter, Ella Bric, Etienne Charles, Roberto Quintero, Jorge Glem, Roy Wooten, Edmar Castañeda, Adam O’Farrill, Dayna Stephens, Yunior Terry, and more. He has graced some of New York’s most iconic stages, including Carnegie Hall and Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, consistently bringing his dynamic percussion to the forefront of the city’s vibrant music scene.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
My family, my roots, my folklore, honesty
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.danielprim.com/
- Instagram: @danielprim
- Youtube: @danielprim
