Filin Guitar | Jazzin’ Up the Bolero
After meeting Los Jubilados del Caribe yesterday, I return to the scene of the crime for my first lesson with Rudy. As I arrive, Los Jubilados are packing up for…
Los Jubilados Del Caribe
I take the short walk up into Santiago de Cuba’s cultural quarter to a plaza outside the Bacardi Museum. My senses pull me towards the…
Open Mic at the Casa de Las Tradiciones
The great thing about Cuba is: it doesn’t matter if you’re looking for the action or not – the action finds you. One night Marianna invites…
Bolero-Son | Cuban Con-Fusion
So far, in my first Cuban guitar lesson with trovadora Xiomara Vidal, she has introduced me to the bolero and walked me through the son. But it’s getting…
Introduction to Son with Xiomara Vidal
After beginning at the shallow end of the Cuban genre pool with an introduction to the bolero, I’m now going to attach my musical arm bands and doggy-paddle…
Introduction to Bolero with Xiomara Vidal
The day after first meeting trovadora Xiomara Vidal, my new Cuban guitar teacher, I arrive at the Casa del Queso for my first lesson. I’m nervous and…
Paul McCartney’s Secret Visit to Cuba
Xiomara beckons me to the back room. She points to a wall with a wooden chair stuck to it. There are two framed notes below,…
Meeting Xiomara Vidal at the Casa De La Trova
After my first night in Hostel Girasol, I set off in search of a guitar teacher who can guide me through the labyrinth of Cuban rhythms and genres.
Settling in Santiago de Cuba
I arrive at Santiago de Cuba’s bus station from Bayamo, where I had spent my first 3 days exploring the Sierra Maestra mountain range. Again,…
Cuba Calling | The Genre Journey Begins
Cuba is a melting pot of African, European and indigenous cultures. It has produced more music genres than you can shake a stick at: bolero,…