Musical Director

A true guardian of Cuba’s musical legacy, Demetrio Muñiz stands as one of the most influential and enduring figures in Cuban music, continuing to inspire audiences and musicians around the world.

Demetrio Muñiz is a renowned Cuban music director and arranger best known for elevating Havana’s legendary Tropicana Cabaret as its Musical Director, where his visionary arrangements blended traditional Cuban sounds with modern orchestral sophistication.

He later became a key Music Director and arranger for the Buena Vista Social Club, collaborating with iconic members such as Ibrahim Ferrer, Omara Portuondo, Eliades Ochoa, Barbarito Torres, and Manuel Machado, helping shape the sound that brought Cuban music to global prominence.

Muñiz also achieved international acclaim through Rhythms del Mundo, arranging groundbreaking collaborations with U2, Coldplay, Sting, Jack Johnson, Maroon 5, Radiohead, and Arctic Monkeys, fusing Cuban son, jazz, and Afro-Cuban rhythms with modern pop and rock.

Today, as Musical Director of Buena Vista All Stars, he leads a powerhouse ensemble of 11 world-class Cuban musicians, blending heritage and innovation to honor Havana’s golden era while creating a fresh, contemporary sound for new generations.

The Master of Laúd

Barbarito Torres is one of Cuba’s most celebrated laúd masters, renowned for his signature technique, expressive artistry, and defining contributions to traditional Cuban music. With a career spanning more than five decades, he has become a central figure in the preservation and evolution of Cuban son, guajira, and other Afro-Cuban genres.

Before joining the Buena Vista Social Club, Torres performed with the Afro-Cuban All Stars, further establishing his reputation among Cuba’s elite musicians. He rose to global recognition as a key member of the Buena Vista Social Club, performing alongside legendary figures such as Compay Segundo, Ibrahim Ferrer, and Omara Portuondo. His virtuosic laúd solos became an essential part of the ensemble’s sound, contributing to multiple Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated projects.

Throughout his career, he has also collaborated with many influential artists, including Celina González, Pío Leyva, Ry Cooder, Rubén González, and Eliades Ochoa, further enriching his musical legacy.

Today, as a featured musician of Buena Vista All Stars, Barbarito Torres continues to bring the depth, elegance, and cultural richness of the laúd to stages around the world. His masterful playing bridges Cuba’s musical heritage with a vibrant contemporary spirit—captivating audiences and inspiring new generations of musicians.

The Master of Trumpet

Manuel Machado is one of Cuba’s most respected trumpet masters and a defining musical force within Buena Vista All Stars. Born in Santiago de Cuba, Machado began performing at a young age, developing a distinctive tone and expressive musical style that would lead him to work with some of the most influential names in Cuban music.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Machado has collaborated with legendary artists and ensembles including Bebo Valdés, Chucho Valdés, Celia Cruz, Paquito D’Rivera, and members of Irakere, contributing his signature sound to projects that span Cuban son, jazz, bolero, and contemporary Latin music.

Machado’s signature piece, “Machado Blues,” has become a highlight of every performance—an expressive, soulful composition that captures his mastery of both Cuban tradition and jazz phrasing. His unmistakable trumpet sound has earned him international recognition and a devoted global following.

Today, as a leading musician of Buena Vista All Stars, Manuel Machado continues to bring the brilliance of Cuban trumpet playing to audiences worldwide. His artistry honors the golden era of Havana while propelling Cuban music into a vibrant new chapter, inspiring listeners and musicians across generations.

Singer

Ángel Aguiar is a renowned Cuban vocalist known for his soulful tone, expressive delivery, and powerful connection to the island’s musical heritage. His ability to blend traditional Cuban son, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and contemporary Latin influences has made him a standout interpreter of Cuban music on today’s global stage.

Born and trained within Cuba’s rich musical tradition, Aguiar Aguiar has built an exceptional career performing with some of the island’s most recognized orchestras and international artists. Among his most meaningful artistic experiences is his work with Eliades Ochoa, with whom he has shared the stage in performances that highlight the depth and authenticity of Cuban son. This collaboration helped strengthen his reputation as a vocalist capable of honoring Cuba’s roots while bringing a fresh and modern voice to its classic sound.

Recognized for his warmth, precision, and emotional presence, Ángel Aguiar brings a vibrant energy to every performance. His artistry reflects a deep understanding of Cuba’s cultural legacy and a commitment to carrying its music forward.

Today, as a member of Buena Vista All Stars, Aguiar continues to honor Cuba’s musical legacy while helping shape a fresh, modern expression for audiences around the world.

Singer

Amanda “Amy” Gaviria is a Cuban-born vocalist and a rising voice within Buena Vista All Stars, bringing a fresh and contemporary spirit to traditional Cuban son and Afro-Cuban music. Her dynamic vocal style blends the warmth of classic Cuban rhythms with modern influences, making her a standout presence on stage.

As a member of Buena Vista All Stars, Gaviria contributes to international tours that honor the legacy of Cuban music while introducing its timeless sound to new audiences around the world. Beyond her live performances, she also releases music under her own name on digital platforms, expanding her artistic reach and shaping her identity as a modern Cuban vocalist.

Today, Amanda Gaviria continues to shape a new generation of Cuban music — combining tradition, innovation, passion, and authenticity — and adding her voice to the living musical heritage of Havana.

Piano

Daniel Amat Amat is an acclaimed Cuban pianist, composer, and arranger recognized for his distinctive blend of Cuban son, Latin jazz, and classical technique. Born in Güira de Melena, Cuba, Amat comes from one of the island’s most respected musical families. He is the son of the legendary Francisco “Pancho” Amat, the world-renowned tres master of the Buena Vista Social Club, whose influence shaped Daniel’s deep connection to Cuban tradition from an early age.

A graduate of Cuba’s prestigious National School of Music, Amat developed a unique pianistic voice that merges the elegance of classical training with the rhythmic richness of Afro-Cuban music. His debut album, El Piano Que Llevo Dentro, earned the Cubadisco Award for Best Instrumental Album, establishing him as a leading figure in contemporary Cuban piano.

Throughout his career, Daniel Amat has collaborated with some of the most iconic names in global music, including Chucho Valdés, Andy García, Arturo Sandoval, Cacho López, Herbie Hancock, George Benson, Carlos Santana, and many others. His ability to bridge Cuban tradition with jazz, world music, and modern influences has brought him international recognition and invitations to perform on major stages around the world.

Beyond his solo work, Amat has recorded and shared the stage with Cuba’s greatest percussionists and instrumentalists, including Tata Güines, Changuito, and members of Havana’s legendary jazz and son ensembles. His performances highlight an exceptional command of rhythm, improvisation, and harmonic sophistication.

Today, as a featured musician of Buena Vista All Stars, Daniel Amat continues to redefine the role of the Cuban piano on the world stage. His artistry reflects a living connection to Cuba’s musical legacy — honoring the heritage of his father, Pancho Amat, while shaping a vibrant, innovative sound for new generations.

Percussion

Ramón González, known artistically as “El León,” is an accomplished Cuban percussionist celebrated for his dynamic, expressive, and deeply textured playing style. With a career rooted in the rich rhythmic traditions of Cuba, González has become a sought-after musician in the worlds of Jazz, Latin Jazz, and contemporary Afro-Latin music.

His versatility and rhythmic mastery have led him to collaborate with an impressive roster of internationally renowned artists and groups, including Marc Anthony, Diego El Cigala, Mónica Naranjo, Paulina Rubio, Gipsy Kings, Antonio Carmona, Omara Portuondo,  Barry Harris, Jimmy Bosch, Coti, Chico Castillo, Lola, José Luis “El Puma” Rodríguez, Luis Enrique Mejía, Steve Turre, among many others. Across genres and continents, his contributions have enhanced countless recordings and live performances.

Known for the depth, sensitivity, and power he brings to the percussion section, “El León” infuses every ensemble with a unique blend of tradition, and innovation. His playing enriches the rhythmic landscape of any project, blending traditional Cuban percussion with modern improvisation and global influences.

Today, González continues to expand his artistic footprint, performing internationally and contributing his signature sound to collaborations that celebrate the depth and diversity of Latin and Afro-Cuban music.

Trombone

Julián Garvayo is a distinguished trombonist whose refined, expressive playing brings elegance and depth to every ensemble he joins. Known for his warm tone, precise technique, and stylistic versatility, Garvayo seamlessly bridges the worlds of Cuban music, jazz, and contemporary fusion.

Throughout his career, he has performed with some of the most respected names in modern music, including Los Van Van, Jim McNeely, Marshall Gilkes, Robert Glasper, Bill Laurance, and other influential artists. His ability to adapt across styles—from Afro-Cuban rhythms to modern jazz—has made him a sought-after collaborator in both live and studio settings.

Today, Julián Garvayo stands out as a dynamic voice in the new generation of trombonists, bringing sophistication, creativity, and a modern edge to the evolving sound of Latin and global jazz.

Trombone

Santiago Cañada Valverde is an acclaimed trombonist and one of the most versatile voices in contemporary Latin, jazz, and Afro-Cuban music. Known for his warm tone, technical precision, and expressive musicality, Santiago has earned a strong reputation both in Cuba and on the international stage.

Throughout his career, he has collaborated with an impressive list of world-renowned artists, including Buika, Caetano Veloso, Branford Marsalis, Jorge Drexler, Jerry González, Alain Pérez, and many others. His ability to move seamlessly between genres—ranging from Cuban son and Latin jazz to contemporary jazz and world music—has made him a sought-after performer in major festivals, orchestras, and recording studios.

Santiago’s artistry reflects a deep command of Cuban musical tradition paired with a modern, global sensibility. His performances are marked by expressive phrasing, improvisational fluency, and a strong rhythmic foundation, making him an essential contributor to any ensemble he joins.

Today, Santiago Cañada Valverde continues to expand his artistic footprint through live performances, studio recordings, and international collaborations—bringing the rich sound of Cuban brass to audiences around the world.

Bass

Rainer Pérez is an accomplished Cuban bassist whose rich tone, rhythmic precision, and musical depth form an essential foundation of the Buena Vista All Stars’ sound. As the brother of internationally acclaimed musician Alain Pérez, Rainer carries the same lineage of Cuban excellence—shaped by deep musical roots, technical mastery, and a profound connection to the traditions of Havana.

Known for his ability to blend Cuban son, Afro-Cuban grooves, and contemporary Latin influences, Pérez brings both strength and subtlety to the rhythm section. His playing adds complexity, warmth, and drive to the ensemble, anchoring the group’s arrangements while giving space for the melodies, horns, and vocals to flourish.

Within Buena Vista All Stars, Rainer Pérez plays a vital role in shaping the modern identity of the group. His intuitive sense of time, harmony, and musical dialogue allows him to seamlessly support veteran musicians while also contributing a fresh, contemporary voice to the band’s evolving sound. Whether performing classic son hits, Afro-Cuban standards, or newly arranged pieces, his bass lines bring cohesion, power, and authenticity to every performance.

Today, Rainer Pérez continues to represent the new generation of Cuban bassists—infusing tradition with modernity, honoring the legacy of his family, and helping guide Buena Vista All Stars into its next chapter on stages around the world.

Timba

Pedro Porro is a accomplished timbalero and percussionist whose powerful rhythmic presence plays a central role in shaping the modern sound of Buena Vista All Stars. With deep roots in traditional Afro-Cuban percussion, Porro brings a vibrant blend of heritage, precision, and contemporary expression to the ensemble, anchoring its rhythmic identity with both finesse and fire.

Born into Cuba’s rich musical culture, Porro developed his craft through years of performing in local ensembles, mastering the intricate patterns of timba, son, jazz, and Afro-Cuban folkloric rhythms. His technique reflects a deep respect for tradition, while his creative instincts allow him to incorporate modern timba elements, jazz influences, and contemporary groove, giving his playing a unique and unmistakable personality.

Porro’s contributions extend beyond performance. His understanding of Cuban rhythmic language and his collaborative approach help keep the ensemble’s sound fresh and relevant for global audiences. Whether in live concerts, studio sessions, or international tours, he infuses each moment with passion, authenticity, and the unmistakable pulse of modern Cuban music.

Today, Pedro Porro continues to be a key figure in the evolution of Buena Vista All Stars, representing the next generation of Cuban percussionists who honor the past while pushing the music toward a vibrant new future. His artistry ensures that the heartbeat of Havana remains strong — resonating with audiences around the world.

Trumpet

Juan Luis De La Torre is a skilled Cuban trumpeter known for his bright tone, expressive phrasing, and commanding presence within Buena Vista All Stars. Trained in Cuba’s rich brass tradition, he brings a vibrant and contemporary approach to the ensemble, blending the precision of classical technique with the soul of Cuban son, Latin jazz, and Afro-Cuban musical styles.

With a career shaped by performances across Cuba’s most respected stages, De La Torre has developed a reputation for versatility—moving effortlessly from lyrical melodies to powerful, driving horn lines. His artistry adds clarity, brilliance, and emotional depth to the group’s horn section, enhancing the dynamic energy of BVAS’s live performances.

Today, Juan Luis De La Torre continues to represent the new generation of Cuban trumpet players, contributing his distinctive sound to Buena Vista All Stars’ mission of preserving and reimagining Cuba’s musical heritage.

Drummer (North & South America)

Calixto Oviedo is a Latin Grammy–nominated drummer and one of the most influential percussionists of his generation. Born in La Víbora, Havana, he began playing drums as a child and quickly emerged as a prodigy, translating Cuba’s deep rhythmic tradition into a modern, innovative voice that would shape the future of Afro-Cuban and Latin jazz.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, Oviedo has performed and recorded with an extraordinary roster of world-renowned artists, including Paquito D’Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chucho Valdés, Danilo Pérez, David Sanchez, Giovanni Hidalgo, Juan Pablo Torres, Orlando “Maraca” Valle, and the legendary percussionists Tata Güines, Changuito Quintana, and Miguel “Angá” Díaz. He became the first drummer for Arturo Sandoval after his departure from Irakere, solidifying his reputation as a leading force in Cuban music.

Oviedo’s groundbreaking work with NG La Banda in the 1990s helped define Timba, the explosive, jazz-infused evolution of Cuban dance music. His powerful, polyrhythmic approach on drums and timbales during the band’s golden era — on albums such as Santa Palabra, Échale Limón, and El Trágico — established him as one of the genre’s principal architects. He later recorded in Sweden, toured internationally, and served as drummer for the Afro-Cuban All Stars, further expanding his global influence.

Now based in the United States, Calixto Oviedo continues to perform, record, and lead clinics at major universities including CU Boulder, CSULA, and Berklee College of Music. A headliner at festivals worldwide — from Montreux to North Sea Jazz to Montreal Jazz Festival — he remains a living master of Cuban rhythm and one of the great innovators of modern Latin jazz.

Trumpet (North & South America)

Thommy Lowry is an award-winning trumpeter, composer, producer, and studio musician whose artistry has made him a standout figure in Latin jazz, Cuban music, and contemporary Afro-Cuban performance. Known for his distinctive tone and creative versatility, Lowry has become a sought-after collaborator in both live and studio settings.

His career includes performances and recordings with some of the most respected names in Cuban and Latin music, including Chucho Valdés & Irakere, Omara Portuondo, Alexander Abreu & Habana D’Primera, members of the Buena Vista Social Club, and Juan de Marcos & the Afro-Cuban All Stars. His contributions to major Latin jazz albums have earned him recognition across the international music scene.

Beyond his technical mastery, Thommy is celebrated for the energy, passion, and leadership he brings to every project. As a bandleader and producer, he fosters a collaborative environment that inspires musicians to explore, innovate, and reach new artistic heights. His creative approach transforms every performance into a dynamic musical experience.

Today, Thommy Lowry continues to shape modern Afro-Cuban and Latin jazz through his work as a performer, arranger, and musical director — bringing authenticity, brilliance, and a forward-thinking spirit to stages and recordings around the world.

Laud (North & South America)

Carlos Núñez is a rising Cuban laúd and tres player born in Cienfuegos. He began playing music at a young age, quickly developing a natural talent for Cuban string instruments. His laúd teacher was none other than Barbarito Torres, one of Cuba’s most iconic laúd masters and a member of the legendary Buena Vista Social Club — a mentorship that deeply shaped Núñez’s technique and musical identity.

In his hometown of Cienfuegos, Carlos was a member of the group KFE, where he expanded his repertoire and gained early performance experience. Throughout his career, he has accompanied numerous respected Cuban musicians, including Tejedita, Juan Antonio Díaz, Luis Quintanilla, Asael Díaz “Candelita”, Manuel Soriano, Roberto García, Efraín Riverón, Onieses Gil, Hirán Fundora, and many others.

As part of Buena Vista All Stars, Carlos Núñez represents the next generation of Cuban string musicians. His playing carries the influence of Barbarito Torres while showcasing a fresh, youthful interpretation that brings new energy to the ensemble. With dexterity, sensitivity, and a deep respect for tradition, Núñez is helping shape the future sound of Cuban laúd performance.

Trumpet (North & South America)

Luis Chávez is a Cuban trumpet player celebrated for his dynamic sound, refined technique, and strong command of Afro-Cuban and Latin jazz idioms. His tone is powerful yet nuanced, allowing him to navigate traditional Cuban son, timba, salsa, and jazz with equal mastery.

Trained in Cuba’s prestigious conservatories, Chávez has become a sought-after session and touring musician. Over the course of his career, he has collaborated with prominent artists and ensembles, including: Alexander Abreu & Havana D’Primera, Isaac Delgado, Manolito Simonet y su Trabuco, El Niño y la Verdad, Adalberto Álvarez y su Son, NG La Banda (guest work) and many more various contemporary Cuban salsa and jazz projects. His musicianship blends tradition with modernity, making him a powerful voice in today's Cuban brass scene.

As a member of Buena Vista All Stars, Luis Chávez brings brilliance, versatility, and a highly energetic presence to the trumpet section — contributing to the ensemble’s vibrant, contemporary interpretation of Cuba’s musical heritage.

Percussion (North & South America)

Eduardo Ramos is one of the best young percussionists and drummers of Cuba and Latin America, winner of the International Percussion Competition Havana Rhythm & Dance Festival. He work with artist like Orlando Valle (Maraca) Havana de Primera, Issac Delgado, Tito Nieves, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Semino Rossi, Aymee Nuviola, José Alberto El Canario, Humberto Gatica, Jorge Drexler and more…

Eduardo claims his style is authentically Cuban, made up of strong and passionate riffs as well as African sound influences. He has not only developed his own style but in doing so he manages to pay tribute to the best of Cuba and the world’s percussion tradition.