Jimmy Biala is a music educator, performing and recording artist based in San Jose, California. He currently teaches specialized programs in Cuban and Brazilian percussion to both youth and adult students in the San Jose bay area, he is a member of the music faculty at Santa Clara University and at the California Brazil Camp. Jimmy has received a Downbeat magazine award for excellence in jazz recording and performance. He has been the recipient of grants from the California Arts Council and a Meet the Composer commision. Jimmy was presented a Certificate of Recognition by the California State Legislature Assemble for his unwavering commitment and outstanding service, exemplified by his work with the students of California..
Jimmy is a member of the Beija-Flor de Nilôpolis escola de samba, Nilôpolis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He is also the artistic director of the Bloco so Sol San José brazilian percussion and dance ensemble. In the Bay Area he performs with several ensembles including Lewis Jordan’s Music At Large, the Vernaculars, Canción Tagalog, the Blue House Band, The Joint Chiefs Band and Hatamoto Surf Deluxe. Jimmy has taught and performed internationally in France, Germany, Taiwan, China, Japan, Korea and the Philippines. Jimmy Biala continues his learning with master artists from Brazil and the United States.
