Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Cuba Percussion is a world-renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of traditional Cuban rhythms and classical music for over two decades. The ensemble was founded in 1995 by percussionist and composer Giraldo Piloto, who sought to create a group that would showcase the rich musical heritage of Cuba while also incorporating elements of classical music. Piloto, who was born in Havana in 1968, began his musical career at a young age, studying percussion at the National School of Art in Cuba. He went on to become a highly sought-after session musician, playing with some of the biggest names in Cuban music, including Celia Cruz, Chucho Valdés, and Arturo Sandoval. In 1995, he decided to form his own ensemble, which he named Cuba Percussion. The ensemble's early years were marked by a series of successful performances in Cuba and abroad. In 1996, they performed at the Havana Jazz Festival, where they received critical acclaim for their innovative approach to Cuban music. The following year, they made their international debut at the North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, where they were hailed as one of the highlights of the festival. Over the years, Cuba Percussion has undergone several lineup changes, but the core of the group has remained the same. In addition to Piloto, the ensemble includes some of the most talented percussionists in Cuba, including Yaroldy Abreu, Rodney Barreto, and Oliver Valdés. They are joined by a rotating cast of musicians who play a variety of instruments, including piano, bass, and trumpet. One of the highlights of Cuba Percussion's career came in 2000, when they were invited to perform at the Lincoln Center in New York City as part of the "Cuba: The Next Generation" festival. The festival, which was organized by the Lincoln Center's Jazz at Lincoln Center program, showcased some of the most exciting young musicians from Cuba. Cuba Percussion's performance was a huge success, and they received a standing ovation from the audience. In 2002, Cuba Percussion released their debut album, "Havana: The Next Generation," which was produced by jazz legend Quincy Jones. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish the ensemble as one of the most exciting and innovative groups in Cuban music. Over the years, Cuba Percussion has continued to tour extensively, performing at some of the most prestigious venues and festivals around the world. They have played at the Montreux Jazz Festival, the North Sea Jazz Festival, and the Umbria Jazz Festival, among others. They have also collaborated with a number of other musicians and ensembles, including the Buena Vista Social Club, the New York Philharmonic, and the Spanish Harlem Orchestra. In addition to their live performances, Cuba Percussion has also released several more albums, including "Ritmo y Candela" (2005), "La Rumba Soy Yo" (2008), and "Cuba Percussion & Friends" (2012). These albums have further cemented the ensemble's reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative groups in Cuban music. Cuba Percussion has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2003, they were awarded the National Prize for Culture in Cuba, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a Cuban artist. They have also been nominated for several Latin Grammy Awards, including Best Traditional Tropical Album for "La Rumba Soy Yo" in 2009.

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