Pete Perignon

Bandleader, musical director, and master percussionist Pete Perignon earned a Latin Grammy and traces his lineage to legendary salsa bandleader Don Perignon, his father. Beyond fronting his own ensemble, he has served as both session musician and musical director for numerous performers such as Gilberto Santa Rosa, Yandel, the Johnny Rivera Orchestra, and Victor Manuelle.

Born in Carolin, Puerto Rico, Perignon pursued formal training at the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music beginning at age seven, even though his household already provided extensive musical exposure. At ten he enrolled at the School of Fine Arts, where Raúl Rodriguez and David Marcano instructed him, and there he launched his performing life. He turned professional at fifteen upon joining the orchestra N'Klabe, with whom he remained until nineteen. In 2008 he entered NG2 as a touring and recording member for a five-year stretch, during which he solidified his reputation as a sought-after session player and in-demand musical director, collaborating with Rivera, Frankie Ruiz, Jr., Charlie Cruz, and several others.

Perignon received his Latin Grammy in 2015 for directing Santa Rosa’s band on the album Necesito un Bolero. That same year he issued his first recording as leader, the Select-O-Hits release ¡Aquí Llegó! Two years later he partnered with his father for The Perignon's Family Compilation on the label.