Brian Willson

Dr. Brian Willson is a professional musician, educator, author, and student of African Diaspora heritage in the Americas. He has been authorized by traditional intellectuals as a specialist in the Yoruba system of Ifa (Babalawo).   He received his doctoral degree from City University of New York Graduate Center. As a percussionist/conductor/lecturer he has performed in over 25 countries, working with a wide variety of artists including Big Nick Nicholas, Katy Roberts, Morris Lang, Pauline Oliveros, Ivo Perelman, Rasul Siddik, the Mystery Brothers, Salim Washington, Brooklyn Philharmonic, Freddie MacGregor, Gloria Gaynor, Roberta Flack; along with numerous tours of the Broadway shows A Chorus Line, Evita, and  Chess. His work is represented on over 15 recordings, DVDs, and television specials. He is endorsed by Paiste Cymbals, Evans Drumheads, Lang Percussion, and Regal tip drumsticks. He recently retired from Brooklyn College after 28 years of service as professor and Director of Concerts.  In 2011 was he nominated as a trustee to the Board of Directors of Education Africa, USA. He is currently writing a book on Brazilian Candomble communities, and travels to Brazil regularly. He now directs his energies to family, Ifa studies, writing, and charitable endeavors.

Lang Percussion Drums langpercussion.com

Paiste Cymbals  paiste.com

Evans Heads evansdrumheads.com

Regal Tip Stick regaltip.com

Latin Percussion lpmusic.com