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Award-Winning Cuba Tours: Havana Music Tours Earns 2024 Tripadvisor Honor

We’re beyond excited to share that Havana Music Tours has been honored to be the Tripadvisor award-winning Cuba Tour for 2024. This is our second win in a row following last year’s recognition in 2023. This award means the world to us, and we owe it all to the fantastic feedback from our guests who have experienced Cuba’s rich musical landscape through our Cuba Cultural Tours.

Why Choose Havana Music Tours?

As musicians and passionate advocates of Cuban culture, we strive to offer tours that go beyond the ordinary. Hereโ€™s what sets us apart:

1. Genuine Cultural Connections

Our tours are crafted to give you a real sense of Cubaโ€™s music, traditions, and daily life. We introduce you to local musicians, artists, and families who share their stories and talents, providing an authentic experience.

2. Passionate Local Guides

Our guides arenโ€™t just knowledgeable โ€“ they live and breathe Cuban culture. Their enthusiasm and personal stories add a unique touch, making your journey through Cuba both informative and heartfelt.

3. Special Access to Music and Events

With our deep connections in the Cuban music scene, we offer access to exclusive events and venues. Imagine private jam sessions, impromptu street performances, and behind-the-scenes looks at renowned music festivals.

4. Personalized Experiences

We believe every traveler has their own interests. Thatโ€™s why we offer customized itineraries, ensuring your tour reflects your passions, whether itโ€™s music, history, or cuisine. Tell us what you love, and weโ€™ll tailor the perfect experience for you.

5. Stress-Free Travel

We handle the logistics so you can focus on the experience. From transportation to accommodations, weโ€™ve got it covered. Your only job is to enjoy and soak in the culture.

Hear From Our Travelers

Our guests’ stories speak volumes. Here are a few highlights from our Tripadvisor reviews:

James K. – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

โ€œI just came back from the VIP Music Tour. Absolutely fantastic trip! Every aspect exceeded expectations. I am totally hooked now on the music scene in Havana and will definitely be going again with Havana Music Tours.โ€

Javier – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“Absolutely fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime custom-built musical and cultural tour around Havana!”

Stefan – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“It’s very easy to recommend any tour with Chaz and Yami. Period. The experience with Havana Music Tours was life-changing!

Judy – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“It was an uplifting, music and art-filled, educational, delicious, and deeply insightful immersion into the musical culture of Cuba and its’ historical roots.”

Christopher – 5-stars ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒŸ

“We had been to the jazz festival in 2015 with Blue Note and had a great time, but Havana Music Tours blew that experience out of the water! ”

Read more reviews on TripAdvisor. Click Here.

Explore Our Cuba Cultural Tours

We offer a range of Cuba Tours that cater to various interests. Here are some highlights:

  • VIP Music Tour (February/April 2025): Enjoy the best of Cuban music with VIP access to concerts, private jam sessions with top musicians, and guided tours of Havana’s musical hotspots.

To explore more of our Cuba Cultural Tours, visit Music Tours of Cuba.

Join Us

Being awarded the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award for 2024 is a testament to our dedication to providing exceptional cultural experiences. We invite you to join us on a tour and see for yourself what makes Cubaโ€™s music and culture so special.

Thank you to all our wonderful clients for your support and for sharing your experiences. We canโ€™t wait to welcome you on your next adventure with Havana Music Tours.

Tripadvisor Award-Winning Cuba Tours 2024: Havana Music Tours

Havana Music Tours – Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award 2023-2024

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Cuba: Celebrated as the Caribbean’s Cultural Hub for 2024

We are thrilled to announce that the World Travel Awards have named Cuba Caribbean’s Leading Cultural Destination 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights Cuba’s unique contributions to cultural heritage and the arts, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural fabric of the Caribbean.

Celebrating Cuban Culture

For the third consecutive year, Cuba has been awarded this title, standing out among other Caribbean destinations like Barbados, Jamaica, Martinique, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago. This consistent recognition underscores Cuba’s dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.

As a musician and cultural enthusiast, we find this accolade especially meaningful. The streets of Cuba are filled with music, from the timeless sounds of son and jazz to the lively beats of rumba and timba. Music is a constant presence in Cuban life, creating an inviting and inspiring dynamic atmosphere.

A Musical Journey Through Cuba

Cuba’s cultural allure is deeply connected to its music. Havana, the capital city, is a hub for live performances, ranging from intimate jazz clubs to grand theaters. One of the most notable events is the Havana Jazz Festival, which draws music lovers from around the world. This festival is a unique opportunity to see performances by both legendary Cuban musicians and international artists.

Trinidad, another gem of Cuban heritage, offers a different but equally rich musical experience. The town’s historic ambiance provides a stunning backdrop for spontaneous street performances, a regular feature of its cultural life. The town’s cobbled streets and colonial architecture create an enchanting environment for enjoying traditional Cuban music.

Architectural and Artistic Treasures

Cuba’s cultural heritage extends beyond music. The island is home to architectural wonders such as the Malecรณn, a broad esplanade in Havana that stretches along the coast, offering breathtaking views and a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Another notable landmark is the Plaza Vieja in Havana, a vibrant square surrounded by restored colonial buildings, galleries, and cafes.

The visual arts in Cuba are just as dynamic as its music. From street murals to contemporary art galleries, Cuban art captures the spirit and creativity of the island. The works of Cuban artists offer a unique perspective on the country’s culture and history, making the arts scene an essential part of any visit to Cuba.

Festivals and Cultural Events

Festivals are a significant part of Cuba’s cultural identity. Events like the Havana Jazz Festival, the International Ballet Festival of Havana, and the Festival del Caribe in Santiago de Cuba showcase the island’s artistic diversity. These festivals provide a platform for both established and emerging artists, fostering cultural exchange and enhancing Cuba’s reputation as a cultural destination.

Why this Award Matters

The recognition by the World Travel Awards (Cuba Caribbean’s Leading Cultural Destination 2024) is not just a testament to Cuba’s cultural wealth but also an invitation to the world to experience it firsthand. For musicians, artists, and cultural enthusiasts, Cuba offers an environment rich in history and creativity.

Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Havana, attending a local rumba session, or experiencing the Havana Jazz Festival, Cuba’s cultural scene is a vibrant and authentic expression of its heritage.

Visit Havana Music Tours for more insights into Cuba’s cultural treasures and to plan your Cuba Tours. Let’s explore the rich cultural heritage of Cuba together, one note at a time.

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Cuba: TripAdvisor Top Trending Travel Destination of 2023

Exciting news for travel enthusiasts and Cuba aficionados! TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, has recently announced its Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2023, and Cuba has emerged as the Top Trending Destination globally, No.15 for Best Food Destinations and No.6 for Best Places for Culture. These distinctions are particularly significant as they reflect the highest growth in year-over-year interest among travelers on TripAdvisorโ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹โ€‹.

Why Cuba is Trending?

Cultural Richness and Musical Heritage At the heart of Cuba’s allure is its rich tapestry of music and culture. The island is a kaleidoscope of sounds โ€“ from the pulsating beats of Son and Salsa to the intricate rhythms of Afro-Cuban drumming. For music lovers and cultural explorers, Cuba offers an unparalleled journey through its diverse musical landscape.

AfroCUban Culture experience Callejon de Hamel - Havana Music Tours Private Tour - November 2023IMG_2966

 

Historical Magnificence Cuba’s historical significance adds layers of depth to its appeal. The streets of Old Havana, with their colonial architecture and historical landmarks, are a living museum narrating tales from a bygone era. Each cobblestone and corner tells a story, enriching the travel experience with historical insights.

Old Havana Walking Tour - Havana Music Tours Private Tour - November 2023IMG_2817

 

Natural Beauty and Culinary Delights Beyond its cultural and historical allure, Cuba enchants with its natural beauty. The island’s diverse landscapes, from the white sandy beaches of Varadero to the lush tobacco fields of Viรฑales, offer breathtaking vistas. Cuban cuisine is complemented by its natural and cultural offerings โ€“ a delicious amalgamation of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors.

Vinฬƒales Day Trip - Havana Music Tours Private Tour - November 2023IMG_3184 2ย  Dj Jiguฬˆe Vinyl Experience and AfroCaribbean Lunch - Havana Music Tours Private Tour - November 2023IMG_3083

Warm Hospitality The heart and soul of Cuba are its people. Known for their warmth and hospitality, Cubans welcome visitors with open arms, sharing their passion for music and dance. This hospitality is woven into the fabric of every experience, making each interaction memorable.

Havana-music-tours-client-with-professionals-cuban -musicians

The Havana Music Tours Experience

Havana Music Tours, recently honored with the Travelers’ Choice Award 2023 from TripAdvisor, focuses on private and small group tours (Up to 12 guests) led by expert musicians and musicologists. We provide immersive interactions with local musicians, music lessons, and authentic cultural tours, aligning perfectly with Cuba’s emergence as a trending destination. Our in-depth and personalized tours are tailored for travelers eager to experience the best of Cuban music. From skip-the-line reservations at top music venues to customized itineraries, we cater to the unique preferences of each traveler, offering a truly bespoke Cuban adventure.

HMT traveler's choice tripadvisor Collage (2)

Conclusion

Cuba’s recognition as the top trending travel destination for 2023 reflects its multifaceted appeal. Whether it’s the rhythm of the drums in a Callejon de Hamel rumba or the serene beauty of a sunset over Malecรณn, Cuba offers a travel experience like no other. Havana Music Tours stands ready to guide music & culture lovers through this rhythm-filled land, ensuring a journey that resonates with the soul of Cuba.

More info about our tours here.

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Cuba’s Vinyl Vibes: Havana Music Tour feat. Havana RPM 2024

Tour Release

Explore the Heartbeat of Cuba: Havana Music & Cultural Tour feat. Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival 2024

Welcome to a musical journey like no other, set in the vibrant streets of Havana, Cuba. This November 2024, we invite you to join us for the Havana Music & Cultural Tour, a unique blend of rhythm, culture, and the joy of vinyl music. The inaugural Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival is highlighting our journey, proudly presented by Guampara Music, Cuba’s pioneering independent record label.

A Tour Through Havanaโ€™s Musical Soul

The Havana Music & Cultural Tour is your gateway to the soul of Cuban music and culture.

Stroll Through Historic Havana

Take a leisurely walk through Old Havana, where history and artistry meet. Engage with local artists, discover hidden craft stores, and learn about the musical evolution that has shaped Cuba.

Taste the Authentic Flavors of Cuba

Indulge in the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine at some of the cityโ€™s finest paladares. Enjoy moments of culinary delight, and share stories and laughter with fellow travelers.

Move to the Rhythms of Cuba

Whether youโ€™re a dance enthusiast or just looking to enjoy the music, there are plenty of opportunities to move to the rhythms of Cuban music and feel the joy it brings.

A Celebration of Vinyl: Havana RPM Festival

The Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival stands out as a heartfelt tribute to the timeless allure of vinyl. Over the course of two days, the festival gathers a community of vinyl collectors, music enthusiasts, and those curious about the world of records.

Engaging Conversations and Insightful Discussions

Join us for thought-provoking discussions on the evolution of discography in Cuba, the unique role of vinyl in DJ culture, and the empowering connection between women and vinyl. Gain valuable insights from speakers like Leydi Marrero and Rafael Valdivia, who bring their passion and knowledge to the forefront.

guampara music building - Havana RPM Vinyl festival 2023 511 - Art Exhibition

Art, Vinyl, and Everything In-Between

Wander through captivating exhibitions featuring sound-inspired posters by Pepe Menรฉndez, and explore a marketplace brimming with vinyl, equipment, accessories, and crafts. This is your chance to find that rare gem of a record or appreciate the intersection of visual art and music.

 

Live Music That Resonates

Feel the energy as the festival stages come to life with Sunset Shows and Main Shows at Stage 45RPM and Stage 33RPM. Groove to the beats of International and National DJs and experience the vibrant performances of invited bands.

Be Part of Something Special

If you love music, are curious about vinyl, and desire to experience the warmth of Cuban culture, the CUBA CULTURAL TOUR FEATURING HAVANA RPM MUSIC FESTIVAL 2024, November 27th โ€“ December 3rd, 2024, is for you. Join us for this special journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

For booking andย more information, please visit our tour page.

Havana RPM Vinyl Music Festival - Havana Music Tours Promo

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Celebrating Cuban Culture Day with a New Santiago de Cuba Music Tour 2024

Tour Release

Today, as we honor Cuban Culture Day, we’re thrilled to introduce our Santiago de Cuba Music and Cultural Tour, March 27th-31st, 2024. Santiago de Cuba, often referred to as the cradle of Cuban music, holds a special place in the heart of our nation’s cultural tapestry. Nestled in a remote corner of Cuba, Santiago boasts an authenticity that is both rare and captivating.

Withย Havana Music Tours, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Santiago de Cuba’s rich musical heritage, guided by our expert musician team. Over five unforgettable days, you’ll connect with the soul of Santiago, experiencing its vibrant rhythms, historic landmarks, and the warmth of its traditions. From the iconic Casa de la Trova and Salรณn del Son to the Grammy Award-Winning performances of Septeto Santiaguero and the UNESCO-recognized Tumba Francesa La Caridad de Oriente, every moment promises to be a feast for the senses.

Conga de los Hoyos, Santiago de Cuba 2023 – Havana Music Tours

But it’s not just about the music. Santiago’s culinary scene is a delightful journey in itself. Relish meals at renowned spots like Restaurante La Cabaรฑa and Restaurante El Madrileรฑo. As the sun sets, let Santiago’s nightlife enchant you with performances that resonate with the city’s deep-rooted musical legacy.

Beyond the music and food, Santiago’s history is a testament to its significance in Cuban culture. With visits to places like the Conservatorio de Mรบsica Esteban Salas and a day trip to Guantรกnamo guided by historian Jesรบs Cuenca, you’ll gain insights into the city’s storied past.

Sala Dolores, Santiago de Cuba 2023 – Havana Music Tours

So, as we celebrate Cuban Culture Day, we invite you to join us on this special journey to Santiago de Cuba. Let’s come together to honor the rhythms, flavors, and stories that make Cuban culture so beautifully unique.

Discover more about this exciting tour and book your spot:ย Santiago de Cuba Music and Cultural Tour 2024

Happy Cuban Culture Day! ๐ŸŽ‰๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡บ

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Legal travel to Cuba for Americans, and the latest news regarding Cuba Travel. (Updated June 2023)

(Updates June 2022)

The Biden Admin re-authorizes group people to people travel to Cuba for US travelers, as well as other licenses and changes. Check out the details here: https://ofac.treasury.gov/faqs/topic/1541

US Travelers have more options to travel to Cuba. Ready to book a trip? Email us

(Update September 2020)

Here is my video regarding the newest Cuba sanctions, what it means for Us Citizens, and your future Cuba travel. New rules regarding bringing cigars and rums back into the USA, some general travel licenses, and the new CPA (Cuba Prohibited Accommodations)

 

 

Links:

https://www.state.gov/announcement-of-the-cuba-prohibited-accommodations-list/

https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/financial-sanctions/sanctions-programs-and-country-information/cuba-sanctions

(Update from June 2019)

How to travel to Cuba under Support for the Cuban people and what that means for your travel to Cuba.

 

 

(Update from February 2018)

Hi everyone,

I made a short video regarding the newest travel regulations for U.S. Citizens traveling to Cuba. I know a lot of this gets repetitive, but there is a lot of misinformation out there and I want to set the record straight.

 

 

The bottom line is that you can still travel to Cuba as an *individual. I have been reading a lot of misinformation saying that you HAVE to travel with a tour agency. As a tour agency, I am telling you that you do not have to travel with us or any other tour agency! I know it is weird for us to be the ones to tell you that, but it is the truth. We want to see more people traveling to Cuba no matter who you chose as your guides.

The newest regulations regarding Americans traveling to Cuba mostly changed the individual aspect of people to people/educational travel. If you travel under this license you will have to go with a licensed tour group that has an American tour leader, (like Havana Music Tours).

If you decide to go under the Support for the Cuban people license, we can still help you to design your itinerary, make reservations, and generally make the whole process easier. Cuba is a complicated place to travel to, especially for Americans. We don’t want this to stop you from seeing the amazing culture, fantastic music, and experiencing the kindness of the Cuban people.

Although, If you want to go on a tour with Havana Music Tours there are a ton of benefits. Some of which would be a personalized group setting, private reservations, interactions with Cuban musicians, peace of mind, and much more. Not to mention, you don’t have to spend a ton of time planning the trip. We take care if it all for you. Either way… GO TO CUBA! It is a very safe country and a MUST experience.

Restricted list-ย https://www.state.gov/e/eb/tfs/spi/cuba/cubarestrictedlist/index.htm

Feel free to email us at info@havanamusictours.com.

Sincerely,

Chaz Chambers (Owner/Director)

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The newest U.S. travel regulations to Cuba (Updated May 2023)

New update as of May 2nd, 2023

In the summer of 2022, the Biden administration reauthorized the Group People-to-People travel license with OFAC. As well as Professional research and meetings. These licenses are the perfect solutions for a diverse Cuba trip connecting people with Cuba from the United States. People to People travel is possible under the auspice of a tour company (like us) or other sponsoring organization.

However, travelers can continue to travel to Support the Cuban people as individuals and without a tour group. We offer a range of various tours and experiences that both Support the Cuban people and offer an authentic people-to-people exchange. We also can help with Itinerary Design.

 

Gracias,

Chaz Chambers

 

New update as of June 4th, 2019

OFAC, The treasury department has issued new travel rules for traveling to Cuba. This included eliminating one of the 12 licenses called “Educational People to People Group Travel.” Keep in mind that all of the other travel licenses, such as Support for the Cuban people, Professional Research and Meetings, Journalism, and much more are still allowed.

Havana Music Tours will continue to operate under the Support for the Cuban people, and Professional Research and Meetings General Licenses. These licenses are already qualified under our current tour structure. When we travel to Cuba we prefer to stay in privately owned homes and villas called Casa Particulares. Staying in these homes is just one way of supporting the Cuban people, we also work with many musicians, local tour guides, and paladares (private restaurants) to ensure that the use of Tour money goes into the hands of the Cuban people and their families.

 

Sincerely,

Chaz Chambers (founder and director of Havana Music Tours)

 

—June 2017

Dear Travelers,

We are constantly eyeing the changes with Cuba and U.S, and we still firmly believe that Cuba is a very safe place to travel. In fact, Cuba has some of the lowest crime rates in all of Latin America. Havana Music Tours remains dedicated to showcasing the vast amounts of cultural in the music, dance, and art scenes around Cuba. We believe it is important to maintain a positive relationship with our close neighbors. The Cuban people are some of the nicest and most hospitableย people I have ever met. The musicianship and way of living in Cuba is something that I believe everyone should see in their lifetime.

On June 16th, 2017, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an order to the Treasury Department to re-write the travel regulations to Cuba. As of Today, November 8th, 2017, they have officially enacted the new rules. The basics: You can still go to Cuba. The dirty details: it can get more complicated. People to people/educational travel licenses are now limited to traveling in groups with a U.S. based representative. Good news for reading this because Havana Music Tours remains authorized under the OFAC general licenses to be your official tour guides to Cuba. The Treasury Department also released a list of Cubanย military entities that U.S. citizens and businesses are prohibited from having financial transactions with. There are a lot of hotels on this list, and in fact, most of the hotels are considered to be affiliated with a branch of the Cuban military. We continue our recommendation of staying in “Casa Particulars,” which are basically “Bed and Breakfast style” – shared housing with a Cubanย family. There are still a few hotels that are authorized by OFAC, and even options for entire houses and condos to be rented. Please email us if you have any questions: info@havanamusictours.com

Please understand the full requirements for each license. We are not attorneys and are not offering legal advice

 

Thanks for all of your continued support,

Chaz Chambers (Owner)

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What to expect from the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival 2023

By Ismelys Quevedo (Cuban Music Teacher and Business Development Specialist of Havana Music Toursย andย Musical Getaways)ย 

jazz-plaza-official-flyer-2023The 38th edition of the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival will take place next January from the 22nd to the 29th in cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba. The festival will be represented by the free spirit of jazz and visual arts, which is reflected in the event’s promotional poster by famous Cuban artist Arturo Montoto.

This festival edition will be a big celebration with two special tributes. One to its creator and Cuba’s National Music Award Winner 2012, Bobby Carcasses, and the other to the 70th anniversary of the Latin Grammy Award Winner group, Los Muรฑequitos de Matanzas. Members of this last group will join the festival in this celebration offering a special master class to show the wide range of interconnections of jazz music with other music genres.

The Havana Jazz Plaza Festival 2023 edition’s promotional music video by composer and pianist Roberto Fonseca (Art Director of the festival) was recently released with the title “Madre Oshun.” A beautiful song that brings together representative jazz performers such as Yandy Martinez (bass), Dayron Ortiz (electric guitar), Ruly Herrera (drums), Adel Gonzรกlez (Congas), Javier Zalba, and Emir Santa Cruz (saxophones), Roberto Garcia, Thommy Lowry (trumpets), Eduardo Sandoval and Yoandy Argudรญn (trombones), Rodrigo Sosa (quena flute) and the voices of Zule Guerra and Brenda Navarrete (batรก drums). “Madre Oshun” also has the special participation of the saxophonists Cesar Lopez and German Velazco, along with the classical music singer Bรกrbara Llanes.

Among the main venues selected for the 38th edition of the Jazz Plaza Festival in Havana are the Teatro Nacional de Cuba (Sala Avellaneda and Sala Covarrubias), Teatro Amรฉrica, Teatro Martรญ, Sala Tito Junco del Centro Cultural Bertolt Brecht, Teatro del Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Pabellรณn Cuba, Fรกbrica de Arte Cubano, and the Casa de la Cultura de Plaza. Other activities will be happening on the other side of the island, especially in Santiago de Cuba city. The venues selected for this part of the event are the Iris Jazz Club, Patio de la UNEAC, Teatro Martรญ, Teatro Macubรก, and Plaza Dolores.ย 

Among the well-curated concerts, the Jazz Plaza Festival will also propose other internal events like Primera Lรญnea and the International Colloquium “Leonardo Acosta in Memoriam.” Yes, Primera Lรญnea is back. This music business event, developed to create an interchange between musicians and business people from the global music industry, has brought a lot of success for Cuban musicians. So, the festival organizers are bringing it back in 2023.ย 

On the other hand, the Annual International Colloquium “Leonardo Acosta in Memoriam” will proudly commemorate its XVIII edition. This event, curated by musicologist Nerys Gonzalez Bello, will dedicate part of its workshops, lectures, and professional exchanges to a few important anniversaries, such as: the 90th Birth Anniversary of musicologist Leonardo Acosta, the 85 death anniversary of Chano Pozo, the 45 years of the foundation of CIDMUC (Centro de Investigaciรณn y Desarrollo de la Mรบsica Cubana), the 60 Anniversary of the Original de Manzanillo band, and the 65th anniversary of the pianist and composer Ernรกn Lรณpez Nussa.

At the moment, only a few artists have been confirmed as part of the event’s Line-Up. However, Havana Jazz Plaza Festival is well known for showcasing the best jazz musicians of Cuba and the world. So, we believe that this 2023 edition won’t be different.ย 

Join us on our special annual jazz tour. Together we can enjoy the best music of Havana during Cuba’s famous music festival, the Havana Jazz Plaza. As always, we expect the best from this 38th edition of the festival, and you should too.ย  More info on our tour page, HAVANA JAZZ FESTIVAL TOUR 2023.

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Cuban music celebration: Cuban musicians at the23rd Edition of the Latin Grammy Awards.

Byย Laluly Romeriย (Cuban musicologist and Business Development Specialist ofย Havana Music Toursย andย Musical Getaways)ย 

Joy grows among Cuban musicians and music lovers after the beautiful nice they had yesterday during and after the Latin Grammys Awards 2022. Cuba and its musicians were awarded seven times last night from the ten nominations in various categories where Cuban musicians were competing. The event ended and left a pleasant surprise.

The musicians Aymรฉe Nuviola and Gonzalo Rubalcava honored Cuban music after winning the award for Best Tropical Album for their album “Gonzalo Rubalcava y Aymรฉe Nuviola live in Marciac.” At the same time, the Best Latin Jazz Album went to the multi-awarded in previous editions Chucho Valdรฉs for the album “Mirror Mirror” with Eliane Elias and Chick Corea.

The video “This is not America” won the Best Short Form Music Video award. A joy distributed among its director Greg Ohrel, the Franco-Cuban sisters Ibeyi, and the Puerto Rican singer Residente. On the other hand, the Cuban singer Lenier Mesa and the Puerto Rican artist Marc Anthony won the award in the category of Best Tropical Song.

Undoubtedly, one of the greatest joys of the night was the Best Folk Album category award for the album “Ancestros Sinfรณnicos” of the group Sรญntesis, a Cuban band currently celebrating its 46 anniversary.

The award for Best Salsa Album went to the Cuban recording and mixing engineer Juan Mario Aracil Mayito, who has been awarded in previous editions of the Latin Grammys. This time it was for the album “Pa’lla Voy” by an artist mentioned earlier, Marc-Anthony. This award emphasizes how much talent exists in Cuba in any musical field.

Finally, the Best New Artist award was a great surprise and pride for many, where 95-year-old รngela รlvarez demonstrated that dreams can come true regardless of age. Her speech was one of the most emotional of the night because she longed for her homeland, Cuba, which inspired her to create each song.

Cuban music continues to position itself and grow within an industry where it is difficult to compete with music mostly made for the great masses. It demonstrates that the roots of musical traditions break any commercial barrier and that the most important thing is music, a universal language.

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Cuba’s International Salsa Festival in Havana – February 2023

The Cuban Salsa festival in Havana, Cuba is one of those events where you won’t stop dancing for a second. The event brings together the most relevant famous music orchestras from all over the Island. It is an explosion of music and energy never experienced before.

The highlight of this Festival is the salsa music genre, better known in Cuba as “son” or “timba” -one of the most modern and popular variants of Cuban son. Hence, the possibility of enjoying the rhythmic-melodic combinations of contemporary Cuban popular music.

Since the first versions of the Havana Salsa Festival, the presence of Afro-Cuban rhythms, rumba, Salsa, and casino dance in different modalities has been shocking, such as concerts, showcases, conferences, visits to places with relevant musical history, etc.

The Cuban pianist and composer Maykel Blanco plays the primary host of the event, together with his Salsa Mayor orchestra and Cuban cultural institutions such as the Centro Provincial de Espectรกculos y de Carnaval de La Habana (Provincial Center of Shows and Carnival of Havana), and other music businesses like Artex, Paradiso, Musicalia, Clave Cubana, Instituto Cubano of the music.

The festival headquarters is the Club 500 of the Josรฉ Antonio Echeverrรญa de Palmares Recreational Complex, besieged in the heart of one of the most central and popular neighborhoods in Havana, Vedado. The space includes a large stage with an extensive area conducive to enjoying good music and dancing with your friends.

Every year, the famous Cuban Salsa festival welcomes important Cuban groups such as Pupy y los que Son Son, Adalberto Alvarez y Su Son, Alexander Abreu y Havana DยดPrimera, and the legendary Los Van Van orchestra. In addition to national artists, the Salsa Festival has had the presence of international musicians such as the Puerto Rican salsero Victor Manuelle.

For 2022, Festival de la Salsa organizers presented another tight Line-Up, including the famous Cuban orchestras mentioned before. Let’s check it out!

2023 Tour Dates are February 21st-March 1st, 2023

 

Check our special Cuban Salsa Festival playlist if you want to get in tune with our Cuban Salsa Festival Tour.

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