Evan Yako

Evan’s dynamic performances have illuminated esteemed World Music, Jazz, and Folk festivals, including Peats Ridge,
Blues & Roots, Art Not Apart, the National Folk Festival Canberra, the Moon Festival, and more. His awe-inspiring
performances have ranged from intimate settings to grand stages with audiences exceeding 100,000, embracing the
diversity of human connection through rhythm. Notably, Evan released his original album, “Inspirational Stories,” in January 2023, achieving this milestone at the Sydney Opera House.

Evan’s historic performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House stands as a testament to his groundbreaking achievement. He became the first Assyrian artist to grace its historic stage, a moment that reverberates throughout the Assyrian community’s history.

From humble beginnings banging pots and pans, Evan’s unique drumming style emerged, setting him apart even in his early days. His innovative spirit shone through when he auditioned for a local band armed with plastic buckets, a defining moment that etched his name into history.

Guided by influences like drumming luminaries Steve Gadd and Dennis Chambers, Evan has cultivated a mastery of World, Fusion, and Jazz music. His performances have reached global audiences through prominent platforms such as Sunrise, Fuel TV, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and SBS.

Evan Yako is proudly sponsored by Sonor Drums, UFIP Cymbals, Evan’s Drumheads, and ProMark drumsticks. Residing in Sydney with his partner Deena and their cherished daughters, Melody and Harmony, Evan’s personal journey intertwines with his musical endeavors.

Among his many achievements, Evan’s featured spread in Drumscene magazine (Issue 105) marks a pivotal milestone.
This feature boldly claimed eight pages, celebrating his distinction as the first Assyrian/Iraqi drummer to be featured in
Drumscene magazine, Australia’s number one Drum magazine. Evan’s narrative, from busking in Baghdad to nurturing rhythm within refugee children, captured the nation’s attention, gracing 100 newspapers across Australia and the esteemed SBS news.

In partnership with the Department of Education in Australia, Evan humbly extends his expertise to impact young lives
through music education. He visits 6 high schools in Sydney each week, teaching 150 students, and over the last nine years, his “Healing Through Evan Yako’s Drumming” program has reached over 4,000 students, cultivating rhythm, connection, and personal growth.

Evan’s dedication to his craft and his enduring impact on the music realm and his community weave a tapestry of rhythm, dedication, and inspiration that resonates far and wide.