Raphaël Pannier is a Paris-born drummer, composer, educator, and project leader, celebrated for his versatility and international achievements.
After studying classical percussion and jazz in Paris, Raphaël earned scholarships to attend the Berklee College of Music (graduating in 2014) and the Manhattan School of Music in New York for his Master’s degree. While in New York (2014-2020), he collaborated with prominent jazz artists like Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, Miguel Zenón, Aaron Goldberg, and François Moutin, performing at world-renowned venues including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and at festivals worldwide, such as Montreal Jazz Festival and Blue Note Tokyo.
In 2020, he released his debut album, Faune, featuring Miguel Zenón, which received critical acclaim, including “Best Debut Album 2020” by NPR and top ratings from DownBeat, Jazz Magazine, and BBC Music Magazine. His 2023 release, Letter to a Friend, blended jazz with electronic elements, in collaboration with producer Acid Pauli. The album was praised as a groundbreaking fusion by Jazz Magazine, earning a “Choc” award.
Now based in Paris, Raphaël frequently performs with jazz luminaries like Biréli Lagrène, Baptiste Trotignon, and Thomas Enhco, and is a faculty member at the American School of Modern Music. Recognized as one of France’s top drummers by Jazz Magazine, Raphaël continues to innovate, with upcoming projects such as Live au Saint Louis Jazz Festival, a unique fusion of jazz and traditional Senegalese sabar percussion, set for release in 2025.