BIO

Hank Allen-Barfield is a rising star jazz drummer based in New York City, recognized for his versatility, technical skill, and dedication to the jazz tradition. A native of Sacramento, California, he began playing drums at age 10, influenced by his father, John Allen, the lead of successful nineties band His Boy Elroy.

Hank pursued formal studies at William Paterson University and The Juilliard School, where he trained under esteemed educators and performers including Kenny Washington, Billy Drummond, Bill Charlap, Bill Goodwin, and Joe Farnsworth, among many others.

Over the course of his career, Hank has performed alongside an impressive roster of musicians, including Samara Joy, Stella Cole, Emmet Cohen, Vincent Herring, Nat Reeves, David Williams, Jerry Weldon, Bruce Harris, Mike LeDonne, Sarah Hanahan, Jeb Patton, Julius Rodriguez, James Morrison, Phillip Harper, Michael Weiss, and many others. He is a regular presence in New York’s jazz scene, frequently leading his own bands and running jam sessions at renowned venues around the city.

His performance credits span some of the most respected clubs and festivals in the jazz world, including Smalls, Mezzrow, Smoke Jazz Club, Birdland, Dizzy’s Club, Café Bohemia, the Django, The Jazz Forum, Kennedy Center, Black Cat, Scullers, and the Monterey Jazz Festival, among others.

In addition to his career as a performer, Hank is a dedicated educator with extensive training and experience. During his masters studies at The Juilliard School, he refined his approach to teaching under the guidance of world-class instructors, focusing on both technical mastery and the history of jazz. Hank has conducted clinics and workshops for high school students through organizations like Jazz House Kids and the Live Performing Arts Academy, sharing his knowledge and passion for the art form with the next generation of musicians.

Hank is a proud endorser of Paiste Cymbals.