BIO
Adrian J Portia is a professional Drummer/Percussionist and Handpan player based in Australia.
Adrian started playing The drums from the age of 10 and by 12, he was already touring with his father's band, gaining valuable experience along the way.
At the age of 19 Adrian was runner up in Australia's Best Up And Coming Drummer Competition, which led him to endorsement deals with Premier drums, Sabian Cymbals and Vater drumsticks.
He has performed with many different artists, musicians and bands over the years and is still an in demand working musician.
Adrian enjoys experimenting with different hand percussion and is continuing to explore world percussion instruments.
His desire to play the Handpan began when he first saw the original "HANG" in 2008, although it wasn’t until august 2013 that he acquired his first Handpan, marking the beginning of his exploration into this unique instrument.
Adrian is Internationally recognized as one of the leading players, innovators, and educators on the handpan, and is widely known for his speed, technical precision, and dynamic range on the instrument.
He has traversed the globe, teaching thousands of students and leaving audiences captivated by his performances and improvised sound journeys.
Having an extensive musical vocabulary, Adrian has the ability to play all genres of music on the handpan, while maintaining his own unique signature style and sound.
He has Affectionately been given the nickname "The Hummingbird”
Adrian’s debut album “Life In Colour” was released in August 2015 and a live Ep “Doumia” in 2022.
International collaborations include famous indian flautist Ranu Majumdar.
Pianist, composer and Bollywood producer Santosh Mulekar.
Film score producers Jon Opstad and Adam Hochstatter.
World-renowned bass players Janek Gwizdala and Justin Gray and many more…
Committed to ongoing growth, Adrian views himself as a perpetual student, dedicated to delving deeper into the craft of playing the handpan.