Diana
DrumsPercussionPianoVoice
About Diana
Diana Andrea Soto Teixeira is a percussionist, vocalist, and music educator based in Los Angeles, CA. Her work is deeply rooted in Latin American folklore and the music of the African Diaspora, using drumming and singing as pathways to cultural connection, creativity, and self-expression.
Diana brings extensive experience in early childhood music education, where she specializes in rhythm, movement, and voice-based learning. She has worked with Craft Music in the LILA (Lycée International de Los Angeles) after-school program, where she taught young children through engaging, developmentally appropriate music experiences that emphasize listening, coordination, and joy. Her expertise in early learners makes her especially skilled at introducing children to music in a way that feels natural, playful, and inspiring.
In addition to percussion and voice, Diana also teaches piano and singing, helping students build strong foundational skills while nurturing musical curiosity and confidence. Her lessons often integrate rhythm and vocal work alongside traditional piano study, offering students a well-rounded and expressive musical education.
Diana is the daughter of renowned Peruvian composer Andrés Soto, whose music and artistic legacy continue to influence her creative voice. She holds an MFA in African Music and Dance from CalArts and a Certificate in Afro-Latin American Studies from Harvard University. Whether performing or teaching, Diana is passionate about music as a living tradition and a powerful tool for connection, expression, and growth.
Q&A with Diana
Which musician would you like to play with?
Pedrito Martinez
What can you teach me better on your instrument than any other teacher?
How to have fun and listen to find the musical instincts that we all already have
How did you learn to play your instrument?
I was in music school since I was 8 years old, but later I realize that the most important part of playing an instrument is having fun.
What equipment do you play on today?
I play all types of percussion like congas, congos, cajon, minor percussion, also drumset and timbales. I also play ukulele, piano, flute, recorder and bass for fun.
Which personal trait helped you the most while practicing?
Determination and the willingness to let the music take me.
What does your instrument have that others don't?
I put a lot of love into my drums, I repair them my self and modify them to fit my needs.
How do you handle children?
We are a team and we just like music and games.
What has been your greatest experience as a musician so far?
A female drummer retreat and festival in Argentina called “Retiro de Tamboreras”
What was the biggest stage you played on?
Teatro Nacional in Lima Peru- in front of 2 presidents.
Which record would you take with you to the desert island?
Juan Luis Guerra - Bachata Rosa
Besides music, what else is important in your life?
Health, Family, my community in Altadena, Traveling with music.
Music style(s)
Any Latin FolklorepopR&BSoulUrbano
Level(s) Comfortable Teaching
Beginner to Advanced
What languages can you teach in?
EnglishSpanish
What's your age?
37
Videos
Bands, Projects, Notable Performances, Collaborations
Mayeya Music, Afro-Peruvian Jazz Orchestra, Las Chikas, Earthseed Band
Other Music-related work / goals
I want to create communities through music.
Personal Interests
Traveling, Camping, Nature, the Ocean, Dancing, the Stars, Cooking