Steven Brezet began his musical journey at a young age, studying djembe and sabar with Senegalese master Aly Ndiaye Rose. Another mentor in Steven’s journey was Venezuelan master percussionist Orlando Poleo, who introduced him to the depth and spirit of Latin percussion. Beyond technique, he shaped Steven’s musicality and took him under his wing, guiding him with generosity and vision. These formative years built a strong rhythmic foundation and a deep respect for the cultural roots of percussion, shaping his approach to music beyond technique alone.
Driven by curiosity and hands-on learning, Steven expanded his practice to include a wide range of percussive instruments and musical traditions. This early commitment to exploration laid the groundwork for a versatile, globally informed musical voice that continues to guide his work today.
Steven’s musical path has been shaped by extensive travel and direct study within living musical traditions. Time spent in countries such as Senegal, Guinea, Curaçao, Morocco, Cuba, Colombia and Brazil allowed him to deepen his understanding of rhythm as a cultural language, learned through experience, community, and collaboration.
These journeys expanded both his musical vocabulary and perspective, reinforcing a practice rooted in listening, respect, and exchange rather than imitation.
Alongside an active performing career, Steven Brezet is deeply committed to education and knowledge-sharing. He works with students across different levels and backgrounds, focusing not only on technique but also on listening, musical awareness, and cultural context.
Through teaching roles, workshops, and international clinics, Steven aims to support the next generation of musicians while contributing to a strong and sustainable percussion community.
Conservatorium van Amsterdam
Jazz Department – Global Groove Program (Percussion)
Royal Conservatoire The Hague
Jong KC (Young KC – School for Young Talent) & guest teacher Classical Department
Fontys Academy of the Arts, Tilburg
Conservatory of Music
Throughout his career, Steven Brezet has been an active presence across the international music scene, performing with a wide range of influential bands and artists. He currently performs with the Afro-funk collective KOFFIE and is a core member of The World Groove Collective, while also collaborating with leading acts across jazz, Afrobeat, Latin, and global music.
Steven’s musical path has brought him on stage with renowned groups and artists such as Snarky Puppy, Ghost-Note, Quique, Bokanté, Banda Magda, Bill Laurance, Fatoumata Diawara, Bassekou Kouyaté, Zuco 103, Beatriz, Gallowstreet, The Re:Freshed Orchestra, Hamid El Kasri, Tony Allen, KHALID SANSI, Karsu, Los Papines and Peruchin among many others. These collaborations span continents and genres, reflecting a career rooted in rhythm, cultural exchange, and musical versatility.
