Arturo O’Farrill is a Grammy-winning pianist, composer and one of the most influential voices in Afro-Cuban jazz. But for him, Cuba is more than just an inspiration — it’s home, history and identity.
In Havana, during the 41st International Jazz Plaza Festival, Arturo told us why jazz cannot be understood without Cuba, why Afro-Cuban roots remain central to the music’s evolution, and why cultural exchange persists despite the United States’ decades-long economic war on Cuba.
Arturo has been returning to Cuba year after year for over two decades, honoring his heritage, and using music as a bridge between Cuban and U.S. citizens - despite the personal cost of taking political positions.
“This is Cuba,” he says. “I come here to learn how to live.”
Peter Link
lemmy.ml
pete_link@lemmy.ml