Bio
Luis “El Pana” Tovar is a JUNO-nominated percussionist from Venezuela. Since arriving in Alberta 18 years ago, he has made an indelible mark on the Western Canadian music scene, with 29 years of professional experience in percussion of world music instruments.
Regardless of musical genre or collaborators, Luis brings a unique combination of energy and positive dynamics to the stage or recording studio, drawing on his Venezuelan and Afro-Caribbean roots to engage in any project. He has played a prominent role in a variety of local musical groups, such as the Esteban Herrera Quintet, Montuno West, Perpie Nwa Olisa, Notas de 4, The Grandstand Show, and Decidedly Jazz Danceworks. Additionally, he participated in DJD’s “Sistema Nervioso” show last year.
In a significant milestone of his career, Luis had the opportunity to produce the album “Luz” by Venezuelan singer Arturo Marc in late 2023. This experience allowed him to collaborate with two renowned Grammy-winning cuatro players, Héctor Molina and Jorge Glem, further enriching his career and consolidating his position as a renowned music producer on the international scene. Luis has collaborated with other internationally renowned artists such as Oscar D León, Willie Colón, Johnny Reid, and Gil Coldstein.
His mission goes beyond music; Luis’s aspiration is to share his talent with the community and promote unity within the Canadian territory through his performances and collaborations. He enjoys sharing his experiences and knowledge with the next generation of musicians, further emphasizing his versatility and dedication to exploring various musical styles and projects.
