Hello! My name is Ayman Abi Kheir. I am a drummer/percussionist, composer, and producer from Lebanon.
I provide memorable musical performances featuring original music, either as a solo live-looping performance with drum set and electronics/synthesizers, or with a five-piece band; as well as cover music tailored to each client’s preferences and needs.
I have a diverse musical background and have performed with a variety of artists and groups in both Lebanon and the U.S., covering a wide range of styles, including Lebanese folk/pop, jazz, rock, fusion, and world music.
I hold a degree in Jazz Studies and a master’s degree in Electronic Music Composition.
2 reviews
Sam N.
September 8, 2026Ayman Abi Kheir is a rare, generational talent whose authenticity shines through every single note. Having watched him perform live many times including the deeply moving album release of "Life Beyond the Port of Beirut", I can confidently say that every single experience is completely unforgettable.
Ayman doesn't just play music; he shifts the very atmosphere of a room. He possesses a rare gift for channeling raw emotion into the space, turning any environment into a captivating sanctuary of sound that leaves the audience spellbound. His depth as an artist connects with people on a soul level. If you have the opportunity to book him, do not hesitate. He will elevate your event into an experience your guests will talk about for years.
Hired as: Drummer, World Music
Emily F.
September 8, 2026I hired Ayman as a cajon percussionist for a performance at a large, high-end jewelry store anniversary event, and I couldn’t have been happier with how everything turned out! I was performing a two-hour all-violin set and needed a percussionist who could complement the music while fitting the atmosphere of an upscale event. Despite having very little time to prepare, Ayman was incredibly professional, created backing tracks for each song in the set, and came fully prepared for the performance.
Ayman is clearly a highly experienced and accomplished musician. His charisma and natural stage presence immediately drew people in and the guests just love him! His playing also complemented my violin beautifully, elevating the entire performance.
I would highly recommend Ayman to anyone looking for a professional percussionist for a wedding, private event, corporate function, or stand-alone live performance. He is incredibly talented, dependable, and a pleasure to work with.
Thank you, Ayman, for stepping in on such short notice and going above and beyond for this event. I would absolutely work with you again!
Hired as: Drummer
Price range: $300-$1500
Languages: Arabic, English, French
Gig length: 30 - 120 minutes
If booked for original music, two setups are offered:
1. Solo Performance
Solo performance with acoustic drums and live electronics/synthesizer.
Expect a blend of world rhythms, heartfelt melodies, and groove.
2. Band Performance
A five-piece band featuring drums, bass, guitar, keys, and saxophone, playing music rooted in groove and improvisation, with influences from jazz, rock, fusion, funk, blues, and world music.
If booked for cover music, a customized setup will be provided based on the client’s needs and preferences.
From the Levant to North America, and all the influences in between, Ayman Abi Kheir uses music to build bridges across cultures. His unifying, holistic approach transcends genres and is reflected in his multifaceted work as a composer, drummer/percussionist, producer, and educator. Ayman holds a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies from Capital University and a master’s degree in electronic music composition from the University of Louisville. His music weaves together the mystical groove of ethnic rhythms, immersive soundscapes, and heartfelt melodic lines, creating a rich emotional spectrum. This expressive blend is illustrated in his self-authored albums Life Beyond the Port of Beirut (2024) and Zayzafoon (2019), which showcase his use of music as a universal language that unites and inspires.
1 - Solo Performance (Drums and live electronics/synthesizer):
A PA system that takes a stereo output from my sound card is required. If it is a small space with no PA, I can use my own speakers.
2 - 5 Piece band:
A PA system that takes 4 drum mics, guitar line, keyboard line, bass guitar line, and saxophone mic.
Sting, the Police, Weather Report, Medeski Martin and Wood, Norside Organ Trio, Crosby Stills and Nash, Trombone Shorty, Fatoumata Diawara, Pink Floyd.
Backline that has drums (I can provided my own drums if needed)
PA system that takes drum mics, guitar line, bass line, keyboard line, and saxophone mic
Drummer
