Efrain Toro, reputed to be one of the finest all-round percussionists in the world, will lead a masterclass in rhythm – a basic element in music – on January 12 at Knight Music, Luqa.

The masterclass, entitled Rhythm in Essence, is suitable for all musicians. It will demonstrate how to develop a universal understanding of rhythm and how different styles of music require different skills.

A native of Puerto Rico, Efrain moved to Boston aged 21 to study drum set at the New England Conservatory with acclaimed drummer Alan Dawson. Although he started on the drum kit, he soon began to work with timbales, congas and a variety of other instruments. He is a versatile performer and plays a wide range of styles, including rock and roll, jazz, flamenco, pop and classical. He has performed on many film and television scores and commercial jingles, as well as recording with diverse artists.

Efrain taught at Musicians Institute’s Percussion Institute for over 16 years. Having worked for six years as a clinician, product specialist and designer for the Roland Corporation, Efrain is considered an expert in MIDI technology. While living in Cape Town, South Africa, from 2000 to 2004, Efrain taught at Cape Town University as well as in his own school and also held numerous workshops. He has also taught at the California Institute of the Arts and at UCLA Extension Department.

He recently participated for the eighth time in the Percussive Arts Society International Conference, during which he promoted his ‘Rhythm’ theory. He has published 16 books on the subject and recently completed a series of nine books for beginners, intermediate and advance players on hand drumming, wood box and drum set technique. He is currently writing books on theory of native musics of the world.

The Rhythm in Essence masterclass by Efrain Toro will take place on January 12 at 4pm at Knight Music, 144, Luqa Industrial Estate. For bookings visit ticketline.com.mt. For further information visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2050428224979924 .