Daniel Allen

Daniel Allen is a Sydney-based musician, author, and music educator who believes learning should move, groove, and feel joyful!

He has led a wonderfully wild life as a professional percussionist, playing everything from Latin wedding bands to classical orchestras and jazz ensembles — and even opening for the Dead Kennedys. Along the way, he studied secondary school in Denmark, worked for George Lucas, lectured in music at university, and even owned his own photography studio.

Today, Dan teaches music in a wide range of settings, from university programs to youth classes and one-to-one lessons, often supporting students who learn differently. His work focuses on rhythm, movement, body percussion, and helping people feel music in their bodies — not just on the page.

He also runs community ukulele groups at Bondi Beach, where people of all ages build confidence through rhythm, play, and a few happy giggles. When he’s not teaching or writing, you’ll likely find him dancing salsa, rueda, bachata (and bachata rueda!), or forró, or playing in Brasilian samba baterias and getting as many people as possible up and dancing.

And just like Danny in his book… Dan has dyslexia too.