Julio Llerena is a musician with more than 30 years playing several percussion instruments such as congas, bongos, güiro, maracas and cajón.

Born in Peru into a family of musicians, Julio was always interested in rhythm and the way an ensemble of sounds could inspire movement, dance and fantastic forms of communication around the world. This interest took him to explore the musical tradition of several countries in the Americas, especially in Cuba, where cajons are also an integral part of its music landscape.

Julio has mastered the percussive tradition of Afro-Peruvian and Andean folklore, but his musical curiosity has taken him to play (and sing!) in jazz, rock, salsa, Cuban rumba and even classical music projects. Julio is a founding member of Kuntur Wasi and Orquesta Calle Sol, and has played with bands such as Delpueblo Delbarrio, Los Romanceros, La Sarita, Perú Expresión and others.

Also a professional journalist and writer, Julio has investigated thoroughly the history of the cajón and the legacy of the Afro-Peruvian community. His articles have appeared in media outlets in Peru, the United States, Colombia, Argentina and Spain. In recent years, Julio’s been studying the craft of carpentry to make his own instruments. This path has taken him to create his own variations of percussion instruments, a new chapter in his relentless exploration of sound and rhythm.