Nina Rodriguez

Based in San Antonio, Texas, Nina Rodriguez is a versatile and contemporary percussionist. She is well versed in the traditional Afro-Cuban and world rhythms but versatile enough to fit into a country session. Nina Rodriguez mobilizes her percussion skills for live music, studio recording and drum circle facilitation.

Nina Rodriguez serves as founder and facilitator for Unlock the Rhythm™. She is also a facilitator for Rhythm Power™ events for The Source Consulting Group. Nina uses Toca Synergy Djembes, Djun Djuns, Timbales, Cajon and a variety of hand percussion. The authenticity, tone, pitch and extreme attention to detail make these products kick! Her interactive audiences love the Toca Freestyle Djembes. Their unique colorful designs along with their lightweight and durable construction make it a perfect fit for her drumming participants.

Nina creates her drumming programs to be unique, based on her client’s needs whether it’s classroom, auditorium, conference, organization, production and animation. She believes, "Everyone has rhythm, and sometimes the rhythm within us gets locked up. Through the universal language of music and rhythm we are able to connect ourselves to our purpose, our passion and our destiny. It's from that place the music begins to flow. Life is a journey of rhythm, one pulse at a time, and one heart connection at a time.”

Nina grew up in a musical family, greatly influenced by her grandfather, Henry "Papa" Garcia, a renowned bandleader. She has been playing percussion for as long as she can remember. Looking back, she recalls the incredible thrill she experienced when listening to The Beatles, Sergio Mendes/Brazil 66, Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Santana and the Gipsy Kings. These bands, with their popular appeal, relaxed musical boundaries, and strong charisma helped shape Nina's approach to percussion and entertainment. Add to the mix Nina's early encounters with Motown, soul and R & B; all figure into her unique approach to music.

Nina’s credits include recording the studio tracks for Randy Travis' Grammy-winning album, “Rise and Shine”. She had also arranged and recorded djembe parts for Bette Sussman, toured with the Jewish Latino musician Yehuda Glantz. She has also recorded with a number of gospel, Latin, jazz, country and rock musicians.

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