Fernando Ventura — Timbalero (Percussionist)
Fernando Ventura is the timbales player of Pablo Antonio y La Firma, the tropical Latin band from Washington DC performing since 1999. Of Salvadoran heritage and based in Silver Spring, Maryland, Fernando is a musician with serious formal training and a natural versatility that makes him essential to the band’s rhythm section. He studied at Montgomery College and the prestigious Berklee College of Music — a background that speaks to a deep and lifelong commitment to music.
Musical Background
Fernando’s career spans a wide range of projects and musical contexts. He has shared the stage with well-known acts including Rene Alonso, Los Hermanos Flores, JCJ, Punto y Parte, Sector L, and many more. That breadth of experience has shaped him into a complete percussionist — one who adapts instinctively to the rhythmic demands of tropical Latin music. Beyond performing, Fernando also works as an audio engineer outside the band, giving him a rare understanding of music from both sides of the stage.
With Pablo Antonio y La Firma
Fernando joined Pablo Antonio y La Firma 2 years ago and has been a cornerstone of the band’s percussion section ever since. He plays timbales on salsa and cumbia, and moves to tambora when the music calls for it — most notably on merengue, where the tambora drives the rhythm at the heart of the genre. What he enjoys most about performing with the band is sharing the stage with fellow musicians and making great music together. His fun fact captures who he is perfectly: he’s a horticulturist by day, works at an art museum, and believes his life is art.
Meet Pablo Antonio y La Firma
Fernando is part of the full live ensemble that makes up Pablo Antonio y La Firma, the most recognized tropical Latin band in the DMV area since 1999.
Meet Fernando — Interview Coming Soon
What would you ask Fernando if you could? We will soon be publishing an exclusive interview where he shares his story, musical journey and what it means to be part of Pablo Antonio y La Firma. Have a question for Fernando? Let us know on our social media.