percussionist

noun

per·​cus·​sion·​ist pər-ˈkə-sh(ə-)nist 

: one skilled in the playing of percussion instruments

Examples of percussionist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After a lot of private detective work, Jenn managed to locate Nouela Johnston in Seattle and flew in her and her percussionist, Joe Mengis, to play her songs. — James Gunn, Rolling Stone, 27 Sep. 2026

In 1972, Little Feat expanded to a six-piece that included two Delaney & Bonnie sidemen who were Louisiana natives, bassist Kenny Gradney and percussionist Sam Clayton. — Al Shipley, SPIN, 8 Sep. 2026

Philip Bailey and his son, Oshunde, have been touring together for the better part of 16 years in Earth, Wind & Fire — the band that Bailey, the insanely groovy singer and percussionist, has been a member of since 1972. — Devon Ivie, Vulture, 1 Sep. 2026

Segovia, a percussionist, has always filled his home with music – playing impromptu concerts for the neighborhood out of open garage doors or inviting friends and fellow musicians over to jam. — Marissa J. Lang, NPR, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

percussionist

noun

per·​cus·​sion·​ist pər-ˈkəsh-(ə-)nəst 

: a person who plays percussion instruments