Chuchito Valdes
Afro-Cuban Ensemble
(Ensemble Afro-Cubano) - ( 6-9 piece)
:
Performing Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz , 
Timba and Traditional Cuban Music -
Cha-Cha-Cha and Danzon thru to
Rumba, Guaguanco and Son Montuno.
This band is led by pianist/composer/arranger Chuchito Valdes. Performing an exciting mix of Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz , traditional Cuban Dance classics, Straight ahead Jazz and much more. This ensemble performs contemporary Afro-Cuban originals composed by the leader, Chuchito Valdes, Original Arrangements of classic Latin Jazz standards by Chucho Valdes Sr. and Irakere and much more.

The origin of this group is typical of the wide world appeal of Afro–Cuban music. The group’s repertoire, which can be heard on their recently recorded debut CD – ‘Encantado’, is a testament to its range. From Tres Lindas Cubanas to Coltrane’s Giant Steps mixed in with many original Afro-Cuban based compositions.


This ensemble consists of six to nine pieces. This ensemble performs a choice selection of Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz standards, intelligent originals and infectious rhythms. A featured vocalist is added to the band for the dance gigs. Currently performing at festivals, concerts, Universities, club dates and private engagements. This ensemble was featured during December of 2000, at the 19th International Havana Jazz Festival, as well as at the Cancun International Jazz Festival in May of 2001. The band completed a successful U.S Tour last summer performing concerts from Chicago to San Francisco. On Nov. 9th, 2001 the band was featured at Orchestra Hall in Detroit.

About Chuchito Valdes

Chuchito Valdes – (Piano) born in Havana, Cuba, comes from one of the most distinguished musical families of Cuba. He has recorded and performed piano with the world renown Cuban band, Irakere, which he led for 2 years. He has performed at festivals,clubs and concerts throughout the world and has recently completed his first recording as a co-leader. From Cuba and the Caribbean throughout the United States and throughout Europe. Some of his worldwide appearances have included. The Jazz Festivals of Chicago, Detroit, San Jose, Brownsville - Texas,Ronnie Scotts Jazz Club in London and Green Dolphin Street in Chicago. The Jazz Festivals of Havana, Cancun and Merida as well as a recent festival performance in San Francisco’s Yerba Buena Music Festival. On Nov 9th, 2001 he led his Afro-Cuban ensemble at Orchestra Hall in Detroit.

He was a child prodigy who studied with many Cuban masters, such as the great Cuban pianist, Chucho Valdes (who also happens to be his father). He has studied extensively, Cuban Music, Classical Music and Jazz Piano. When Chuchito is not travelling around the world performing, he lives in Cancun, Mexico where he leads his Afro-Cuban based Latin-Jazz ensemble. His original compositions and arrangements draw on classical harmonic and structural techniques. He performs music drawing on the following styles. Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz, Bebop, Danzon, Cha-Cha-Cha, Son Montuno and much more.

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