Jafet Pérez, a dynamic drummer, percussionist, and bassist from Santiago in the Dominican Republic, has built a powerful new chapter in New Orleans since arriving in 2020. After losing everything during the pandemic, he rebuilt his life from the ground up—working outside of music before a chance connection brought him back to the stage. His journey has taken him from performing across the Caribbean on cruise ships to sharing stages in New Orleans with artists like Delfeayo Marsalis and collaborating with a wide network of local musicians, quickly establishing himself as a rising force in the city’s scene.

Now a member of the renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Jafet performs alongside some of the city’s finest players while carrying forward the traditions of New Orleans jazz. Through the band and beyond, he has shared the stage with standout musicians such as Kyle Roussel, Clint Maedgen, Yusa, Amina Scott, Victor Campbell, Oscar Rossignoli and Branden Lewis, blending his Dominican roots with the rich musical heritage of his adopted home. His sound is a vibrant fusion of cultures—don’t miss the chance to experience Jafet Pérez live.