BIO
Igor Willcox, born on January 6, 1981, in the city of São Paulo, is a sought-after drummer and composer with a remarkable musical heritage spanning several generations. Son of Paulo César Willcox, a respected conductor, arranger, pianist, and vibraphonist, and Sonia Willcox, a talented singer, Igor found his greatest artistic influence within his own family.
From an early age, Igor Willcox demonstrated exceptional talent for the drums, beginning to play at age 14 in 1995. He had the opportunity to study with renowned teachers such as Alexandre Faccas and the celebrated Swiss drummer Jojo Mayer, who contributed to his musical and technical development.
Throughout his career, Igor has collaborated with an impressive list of national and international artists. His musical contribution includes recordings and performances alongside names such as Jimmie Bo Horn, Guilherme Arantes, Família Lima, Sandy & Junior, Anitta, Daniela Mercury, Patrícia Marx, Rappin Hood, Fernanda Porto, Frejat, Banda Sta Maria, Cecilia Stalin, Izzy Gordon, Gary Brown, Placa Luminosa, and many others.
In the instrumental music scene, Igor Willcox has performed and recorded with major names in jazz and Brazilian music , collaborating with artists such as David Binney, Bob Mintzer, Seamus Blake, Rachel Therrien, Bob Franceschini, Bocato, Tony Lakatos, Rufus Reid, Bobby Militelo, Airto Moreira, Kwak Yoonchan, Frank Colon (Weather Report), Celso Pixinga, Carlos Tomati, Nelson Faria, Michel Leme, Marcinho Eiras, Michael Pipoquinha, Arismar and Thiago do Espírito Santo, Fernando Rosa, Sandro Haick, Mauricio Fernandes, Mauro Hector, Walmir Gil, Erik Escobar, Decebal Badila, Lanny Gordin, Rubem Farias, Zé Canuto, Glecio Nascimento, Wagner Barbosa, Daniel Santiago, Marcelo Coelho, Michel Cury, and many others.
His notable musical contribution is not limited to Brazil. As a sought-after drummer, Igor Willcox has recorded for international artists in various countries, such as the United States, Germany, Netherlands, France, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Belgium, Japan, China, United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Spain, Iceland, Sweden, Israel, South Africa, Lithuania, and many others.
New Samba Jazz
A significant milestone in his career was the 2006 release of his album with the trio "New Samba Jazz" under the Swiss label Altrisuoni Records. The work received excellent reviews in Europe, Asia, the United States, and Brazil, establishing itself as one of the label's best sellers for 4 years.
Festivals and awards:
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Batuka III: Won in the musicality category in 1998 (drum festival organized by the Vera Figueiredo Drum Institute).
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Batuka IV: Opening performance alongside names like Dave Weckl and Virgil Donati.
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Batera & Percussão Magazine: Nominated as breakthrough drummer in the year 2000 and served as a columnist for 1 year.
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Batukinha: Performed in the 1st edition alongside Cuca Teixeira, Vera Figueiredo, Sam Aliano, Marco Minniman, Jim Chapin, and Dom Famularo.
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Modern Drummer Festival (Brazil): Performances in the 2nd and 4th editions (IP&T Festival).
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Workshops in Germany: Performed at the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts and the Hamburg University of Music and Performing Arts, among others.
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Zildjian Camp Brasil: Performed at the first event in 2015.
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TDT (Tagima Dream Team): Editions of 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
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1st IP&T Drum Festival 2021: Performed in the inaugural edition.
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Festival de Inverno de Domingos Martins: Professor in the 2019 and 2023 editions
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Music in China 2025
With his groups, Igor Willcox Quartet and HII Trio, Igor has gained increasing recognition, enchanting audiences at prestigious jazz clubs such as Yardbird Suite (Canada), The Jazz Room (Canada), The Rex (Canada), Blue Note (China), Bourbon Street, and Sescs. He has also performed at international festivals such as Nisville Jazz Festival (Serbia), Bansko Jazz Festival (Bulgaria), Summer Jazz Festival (Slovenia), North City Jazz Festival (Serbia), Panama Jazz Festival, and Play Jazz Festival.
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Igor Willcox Quartet
With an engaging fusion of jazz, funk, and fusion elements, the show reveals the artist's strong compositional streak, his musicality, spontaneity, and the intense interaction between the musicians. The group takes jazz fusion to new heights, demonstrating virtuosity and creativity, earning the respect of specialized critics.
HII TRIO brings a fresh and confident voice to contemporary Brazilian jazz. Featuring Henrique Mota (piano), Iury Batista (bass), and Igor Willcox (drums), the trio creates music rooted in interaction, balance, and collective expression.
Blending modern jazz language with Brazilian rhythms and global influences, their sound moves effortlessly between intricate composition and free-flowing improvisation. With a refined interplay and a strong artistic identity, HII Trio crafts dynamic and immersive sonic landscapes.
Discography:
#1
His debut solo album and play-along project, featuring acclaimed artists such as Bocato, Carlos Tomati, Vini Morales, Clayton Sousa, Glecio Nascimento, Rubem Farias, Bruno Alves, Erik Escobar, JJ Frannco, Fernando Rosa, and Marcus Cesar. "#1" received critical acclaim from major jazz websites like All About Jazz, World Music Report, Clube de Jazz, and music critic Carlos Calado (Folha de São Paulo). It was also nominated by “Melhores da Música Brasileira” as one of the best instrumental albums of 2017, alongside Hermeto Pascoal and João Donato.
“Fusion and jazz-funk fans in particular will appreciate Willcox’s firm, unrelenting groove and tasteful contributions from his colleagues — a promising ride from this versatile drummer and composer.” “More than enough evidence here to suggest that Willcox deserves a seat at the table among current drummers, effectively drawing from the rich well of jazz fusion.” — Troy Dostert, All About Jazz.
Time Traveller
“The Brazilian groove-jazz-fusion group Igor Willcox Quartet returns with a stunning new album titled Time Traveller. The four musicians embark on a multi-sonic journey through time and sound, driven by dynamic rhythms and vibrant solos. Led by the virtuosic ‘captain’ Igor Willcox — who composed all the tracks — the band delivers a kaleidoscope of rhythms and textures filled with charisma and energy.” — Jazz World Quest (Canada)
Live at Bansko Jazz Festival 2022 (Bulgaria)
“The spectacular live performance by the Brazilian quartet Igor Willcox at Bansko Jazz Festival 2022 captures the group’s innovative musicality, tight interaction, and captivating grooves. The recording is a brilliant display of improvisation, energy, and masterful solos, featuring standout contributions by Erik Escobar, Wagner Barbosa, and Glecio Nascimento.” — Jazz World Quest (Canada)
Live at The Jazz Room (Canada)
“With his second live release in as many years, Brazilian drummer Igor Willcox continues to deliver high-energy, groove-laden fusion. The quartet — saxophonist Wagner Barbosa, keyboardist Vinícius Morales, and bassist Glecio Nascimento — fires on all cylinders. Their interplay and creative spark keep the music tight and exciting, while Willcox anchors the band with kinetic balance and drive.” — Mike Jurcovic, All About Jazz (New York)
LIVE!
“The first live album by the Igor Willcox Quartet captures the spirit of a high-voltage, passionate band. Ten tracks of spontaneous creativity from four virtuoso musicians offer a high-quality fusion album filled with synergy and rhythm.” — Jazz World Quest (Canada)
HII TRIO – CONNECTIONS
With Connections, HII Trio delivers an impressive debut, revealing a fresh and confident voice in contemporary Brazilian jazz. Pianist Henrique Mota, bassist Iury Batista, and drummer Igor Willcox create music grounded in interaction, balance, and collective expression.
Blending the language of modern jazz with Brazilian rhythms and global influences, the trio presents original compositions that feel both carefully crafted and freely flowing. The presence of guest artists such as Bob Mintzer, Tony Lakatos, Seamus Blake, David Binney, Bob Franceschini, and Rachel Therrien adds color and depth, reinforcing the album’s spirit of dialogue and artistic exchange.
A luminous and well-crafted debut that combines sophistication, openness, and a strong sense of identity. (Couleurs Jazz – France)
SEE THE COMPLETE DISCOGRAPHY HERE.
Alongside his quartet, Igor is also involved in projects such as HII Trio, Area51 (with Celso Pixinga), and the duo Humachines (with Saulo Marteen), continuously exploring new sonic territories. He also shares his expertise through workshops, lessons, and recordings at his own studio, Bunker32, collaborating with artists worldwide.
Igor Willcox is proudly endorsed by brands such as Zowag Drums, Domene Cymbals, Williams Drumstick and DrumHeads, Power Click, Datalink Cables, Gorilla Pads, Datrel Peripherals, and Torelli Percussion, reflecting recognition of his talent and the quality of his work.
With a career marked by achievements, notable collaborations, and a strong presence in the global music scene, Igor Willcox has established himself as one of the leading drummers, composers, and producers of his generation, leaving a lasting impact on Brazilian and international music.