Lilian Carmona

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1960s

Genres

jazz, instrumental music, bossa nova

Instruments

drums

Biography

Lilian Carmona is a renowned Brazilian drummer, widely recognized as the first female professional drummer in the country. Born in São Paulo, she began her musical journey at the age of eleven and turned professional in her late teens, eventually studying abroad at prestigious institutions such as the Berklee College of Music and the Dante Agostini/Kenny Clarke school in Paris. Throughout her career, she has established herself as a versatile instrumentalist, performing with prominent Brazilian artists like Gal Costa, Toquinho, and César Camargo Mariano, as well as notable international musicians.

In addition to her extensive performance history, Carmona has played a pivotal role in the Brazilian jazz and instrumental music scenes. She spent several years as a member of the Maksoud Plaza Hotel's house band and has collaborated with legendary international acts such as George Shearing and Michel Legrand, besides participating in high-profile musical theater productions. Her contributions to the genre also include playing with pioneering all-women instrumental ensembles like the Jazzmin's big band, cementing her legacy alongside figures of Brazilian instrumental music such as Luiz Eça and Baden Powell.

Beyond her performance career, Carmona is a dedicated educator who has shaped the skills of numerous upcoming musicians in Brazil. She has served on the faculty of institutions like UNICAMP and EMESP-Tom Jobim, while also conducting master classes internationally. Her lifelong dedication to both performing and teaching culminated in the release of her debut solo album, The First!, further solidifying her historical status in Brazilian music.