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Juan Megna

Drummer and band leader.

About Me

Juan Megna is an accomplished Argentinian percussionist, drummer, and bandleader renowned for his vibrant performances and deep-rooted passion for music. With a dynamic career spanning several countries, Juan began his professional journey in São Paulo, Brazil, where he immersed himself in the local music scene for 12 years. During this time, he had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed artists such as Rubinho Antunes, Vinicius Dorin, Jarbas Barbosa, and Bruno Mangueira, enriching his artistry and expanding his musical horizons.

In 2015, Juan pursued a master’s degree at the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, where he showcased his talent alongside renowned musicians like Phil deGreg, Rusty Burge, and Steve Alee. In 2017, he relocated to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, where his vibrant drumming and innovative compositions quickly garnered attention. He has since performed with celebrated jazz artists including Wade Beach, Wayne Wilentz, and Tedd Baker, solidifying his reputation in the jazz community.

Juan leads The Juan Megna Group, a dynamic ensemble that fuses original compositions with a rich tapestry of jazz, Argentinian, and Afro-Brazilian rhythms, creating an engaging musical experience. As an educator, he shares his expertise as a lecturer at Catholic University’s Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art, and directs the Latin-American Ensemble at George Mason University. His commitment to education extends to his work as a clinician, where he has delivered impactful presentations, such as “The Brazilian 16th-note Phrasing through Cabula Rhythm, Samba, and Bossa Nova” at the Jazz Education Network conference in New Orleans.

With a unique blend of performance, education, and cultural influence, Juan Megna continues to inspire audiences and students alike, making significant contributions to the world of music. As an educator, Juan Megna has lectured at Catholic University’s Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art and also leads George Mason University’s Latin-American Ensemble. As a clinician, Juan’s performances include “The Brazilian 16th-note phrasing through Cabula rhythm, Samba, and Bossa Nova”, focusing on developing Afro-Brazilian popular genres in Brazil at the Jazz Education Network conference, New Orleans 2020.