Percussionist and drummer Phil Hawkins has become an expert in steelpan performance and innovation, performing and teaching across the United States, Caribbean and South America. He directed the Steelband and Latin Jazz Ensembles while at Wichita State University before relocating to the Bay Area in 1998, where he’s performed with artists including Pete Escovedo and Ray Obiedo. Hawkins will perform the world premiere of his San Jose Jazz-commissioned “Pontapé [Kick]” in his New Works Fest set.

Hawkins has composed over forty steelpan works and authored instructional books including World Rhythms for Kids: Caribbean Carnival, Caribbean Jazz Ensemble and Pan Rhythm. He has released two recordings as a band leader, H2O and Sugarcane Suite, showcasing his versatile drumming approach. Hawkins operates a home studio media production business specializing in audio recording, mixing, mastering and video production focused on musical content.