Robert Shahid

Philadelphia native Robert E. Shahid grew up with a constant musical influence. His mother sang opera, his aunt composed and played piano, his grandfather sang in the famed Philadelphia Male Chorus, and his uncle was a legendary vibraphonist for Dave Brubeck, Lynn Hope, and Red Prysock. With those musical influences, Robert studied drums in high school and, after graduating from Florida A&M University, later founded The New Philadelphia Jazz Quintet.

Robert has been privileged to perform with Nat Adderly, Rufus Harley, Red Prysock, The Fabulous Emotions, Bobby Timmons, Percy Mayfield, Melton Mustafa, and has been invited to sit in or share the stage with countless others. He has been instrumental in performing for and encouraging youth to pursue their musical interests. Robert believes, “The language of music has been the most consistent common denominator for the sharing of appreciation for the gift of life.”

Robert performs regularly with a variety of local and national ensembles.