Linette Tobin is a percussionist based in the Washington, DC area. Her primary instrument is the congas. Most recently, she formed the group Pangaea which features World Music, relying on the individual backgrounds and influences of musicians from various countries.
During 2014-15, she organized the former Afro-Cuban group Sin Frontera, which played on the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, Atlas Theater, and Exit Zero Jazz Fesitval (Cape May, NJ) in 2015.
She has played with other Afro-Cuban groups (Havana Select, Latin American Folk Institute), Latin groups (Patrick Albans & Sus Noches Latinas, Coral Cantigas), West African groups (Cheick Hamala Diabate & Griot Street Band, BeleBele Rhythm Collective, Akoma Drummers), and various jazz & funk groups. She has just released her debut CD, The New Shape of the World.
She has traveled extensively in Cuba and Africa to experience different rhythms. Her approach to playing is based on applying traditional or folkloric themes to other more contemporary styles, including jazz and fusion (combining genres). She is lauded for using her congas as melodic instruments, for her musicality and versatility, and for boldly combining diverse influences to create unique sounds and music.
She is also a successful immigration lawyer.
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