Antonio Lopes

Antonio Lopes is a dedicated freelance performer, educator, bandleader, and producer based in Iowa. Born and raised in California, Antonio has called Iowa home since 2019, establishing himself as an active performer across both Iowa and Minnesota. He holds degrees in Instrumental Performance and Arts Management from Waldorf University, where he graduated summa cum laude.

As a performer, Antonio has collaborated with prominent Iowa-based groups and musicians, including Anthony Orji, BYOBrass, Carson Parker, the Cherokee Symphony, Johnny Farina (of Santo & Johnny), the Mason City Municipal Band, the Max Wellman Big Band, the Mockingbirds, Napoleon Douglas, Robert Espe, Will Barnett & Company, and more. He has also performed alongside members of the Austin Symphony Orchestra and the Fort Dodge Area Symphony in other projects. Antonio is proud to have performed at leading venues and events around the state including Clear Lake's "Thursdays on Main," the Des Moines Farmers Market, Noce (Des Moines), the Iowa City Jazz Festival, the historic Surf Ballroom, Main Street Mason City's "Friday Night Live," Wooly's, and much more. In addition to his work as a sideman, Antonio leads his own ensembles—the Antonio Lopes Trio, Quartet, and Quintet—quickly establishing himself as an up-and-coming force in the Iowa jazz scene. He is excited to debut his quintet and make his first appearance as a bandleader at Noce on February 11, 2026.

Beyond performing, Antonio is an active educator and clinician at schools around northern Iowa across the middle school, high school, and collegiate levels. He currently directs percussion ensembles and drumline in addition to assisting with concert band and jazz band for the great band programs at Clear Lake High School, Garner-Hayfield-Ventura High School, and Humboldt High School. Recently, Antonio was brought on as adjunct faculty to teach drum set and percussion at North Iowa Area Community College. In addition to his work teaching for different institutions, Antonio is proud to offer private lessons through the historic Surf Ballroom's Music Enrichment Center. Percussion lessons and services cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned musicians. With a focus on jazz, orchestral, and marching styles, Antonio provides a versatile percussion experience.

Antonio’s interest in electronic music production spans over a decade fueled by his long-time love for trance music. Dedicated to his beloved dog and former best friend, Max, Antonio is proud to share his debut single, "In Your Name," available now on all streaming platforms under his artist name, Tone.