Ritmo y Voz: Afro-Cuban Jazz Ignited feat. Jose Andres

Ritmo y Voz brings the electrifying pulse of Afro-Cuban jazz to life, weaving together the rich musical traditions of Rumba, Timba, Changüí, and Batá in a high-energy celebration of rhythm and voice. This all-star ensemble features Grammy-winning changüí master José André from Guantanamo, whose self-taught brilliance has captivated audiences from the Kennedy Center to the Royal Albert Hall. The Bolivian-born pianist and composer, despite being visually impaired since birth, plays "with the heart" and brings profound emotional depth to every performance.

Joining André is Einar "Tito" Leliebre Nuñez, the Santiago de Cuba-born percussionist and vocalist whose fiery rhythms and soaring voice carry the authentic soul of his homeland. As former musical director for Teatro de la Danza del Caribe, Leliebre has performed internationally with groups including Obbatuke and CubaCaribe, and now brings his expertise in Afro-Cuban folkloric music and rumba to Oakland audiences.

The rhythm section features Grammy-nominated bassist Ernesto Mazar Kindelán, who performed internationally for over eight years with the acclaimed salsa and timba group David Calzado y su Charanga Habanera after studying classical double bass at Havana's prestigious Instituto Superior de Arte. Guitarist Kai Lyons, known for his work in contemporary jazz and Cuban music traditions, completes the ensemble, bringing his experience performing with members of Herbie Hancock's Original Headhunters.

Together, these musicians create a tapestry of sound that pulses with history, spirit, and innovation, drawing from their collective experience with legendary artists like Omar Sosa and John Santos. The group's deep connection to Afro-Cuban traditions promises an authentic journey through the musical heritage of Santiago de Cuba, delivered with the passion and technical mastery that defines each artist's individual career.