Juan Pastor

Juan Daniel Pastor is a dynamic jazz percussionist, composer, and educator whose innovative fusion of Afro-Peruvian rhythms with contemporary jazz has garnered international acclaim. Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Juan's early immersion in the rich tapestry of Peruvian folk music laid the foundation for his unique musical voice. Under the mentorship of Afro-Peruvian percussion master Eusebio Sirio “Pititi,” Juan honed his skills on traditional instruments such as the cajon and congas.

Pursuing a passion for jazz, Juan relocated to Chicago, where he earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from Northern Illinois University, followed by a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from DePaul University. His academic journey was complemented by invaluable mentorships with luminaries like Greg Beyer and Dana Hall.

In 2013, Juan founded Chinchano, an ensemble that masterfully weaves the evocative rhythms of Afro-Peruvian music with the intricate harmonies of North American jazz. Chinchano's discography includes the self-titled debut album "Chinchano," followed by "Un Cambio," "El Regreso," and their most recent release, "Cachito." Each album showcases the seamless blend of tradition and innovation that defines their sound, earning praise from critics and audiences alike. Their latest project is set to soar to new heights, thanks to Juan being honored with a DCASE Grant by the City of Chicago to record Chinchano's highly anticipated fifth album.

Juan's compelling performances have graced stages worldwide, with highlights including the North Sea Jazz Festival, Made in Chicago Jazz Festival in Poland, and the Lima Jazz Festival. Notably, he recently headlined the Chicago Latin Jazz Festival and performed at the Millennium Park Pritzker Pavilion, further cementing his status as a leading figure in the jazz community.

In addition to his performance career, Juan is a dedicated educator and currently serves as the Coordinator of the Jazz Program at North Central College. He is also an accomplished author, with his upcoming book, Batería Peruana, set to be released this year, offering a groundbreaking exploration of polyrhythmic grooves inspired by Peruvian folk music.

Throughout his career, Juan has collaborated with a constellation of musical greats, including Fareed Haque, Makaya McCraven, Marquis Hill, Miguel Zenón, Paquito de Rivera, Howard Levy, and Kurt Elling. His artistry continues to transcend borders, creating a vibrant dialogue between cultures through the universal language of music.

Courses Taught

The World Music (MUSI 156) Aural Skills 1 (MUSI 108) Aural Skills 2 (MUSI 208) Music Theory 3 (MUSI 201) Music Theory 4 (MUSI 202)