Santi DeBriano

Santi DeBriano is a Panamanian-American jazz bassist known for his lyrical playing and versatility across a range of styles. Born in Panama and raised in Brooklyn, New York, DeBriano studied at the New England Conservatory and Wesleyan University before launching a career that’s seen him perform with a host of major jazz figures, including Archie Shepp, Randy Weston, and Don Pullen. His deft musicianship has made him a sought-after collaborator and respected bandleader.

As a solo artist, DeBriano has released albums that explore Afro-Caribbean rhythms, post-bop harmonies, and adventurous improvisation. Projects like Circlechant and Artistic License showcase both his compositional vision and his ability to draw dynamic performances from his ensembles. Beyond performance, he's contributed to jazz education, helping to shape the next generation of musicians with the same passion and creativity that defines his music.