study program was jam packed with conferences, hands on classes, private lessons and evening concerts in
historic Havana. The week started with an educational conference and an introduction to Cuban music by the
distinguished and renowned ethnomusicologist Dr. Olavo Alén. Dr. Alén presented KoSA Cuba participants
with an overview view of Cuba's culture, its music and its various genres. This set the stage for KoSA Cuba
participants coming from Europe, Canada and the United States with a reference point for the classes and
concerts that followed.
Conga drum classes were lead by Tomas Ramos "El Panga" (top studio congero) Yaroldi Abreu (from Irakere and Chucho Valdés) as well as Adel Gonzales ( Afro Cuban All Stars). Timbale classes were conducted by Jean Roberto Figueroa from Klimax with his personal "Timba Rhythm" approach to that instrument. Special guest Roberto Smith, the inventor of the new foot maraca shaker (manufactured by LP), demonstrated the ultimate independence in performance as a solo percussionist covering all the percussion parts .
The legendary Timbalero: Amadito Valdés (of Buena Vista Social Club fame) spoke about his philosophy
and approach to soloing—while demonstrating the classic way of playing Danzón. Valdés also showed
the "Abanico" roll, and his unique bell patterns for Guajira, Son and Mambo. Master percussionist Changuito
(Los Van Van) presented a brilliant masterclass on creating independence on timbales. Drumset was taught
by top session drummer Oliver Valdés (Silvio Rodriguez)and Rodney Barreto (Cuba’s newest superstar
drummer). Each master exemplified their own unique and creative approach to Cuban rhythms. Some of the
drumset rhythm adaptations were Abakua, Pilon, Mozambique and Latin Jazz. Another major highlight was a
masterclass and performance by the great Grupo Herencia from Venezuala.
Assisting in the translation department and providing "hands on" instruction was KoSA Founder and Director,
Aldo Mazza—who also presented a public, interactive masterclass within the Havana Drum Festival
demonstrating his unique exploration of hybridized African/drumset performance concepts.
KOSA Cuba participants were also given the opportunity to experience electrifying live performances with
top Cuban artists and dance troupes throughout the week. Performances featured the memerizing Havana
Compas Dance troupe, Enrique Pla, Changuito, Rodney Barreto, Ruy Lopez Nussa, Giraldo Piloto and
Klimax, as well as Cuba’s top female drummers and ensembles such as Anacaona, Compagnia Rakatan,
the legendary Rumba groups Yoruba Andabo and Muñequitos de Matanzas, Conjunto Folklorico Nacional and more. (The winners of the National Percussionist Contest performed live and received prizes of drums, congas, timbales, bongos and cymbals graciously provided by, Sabian, Evans, Promark, KoSA Music and Regal Tip)
Following the nightly concerts of the Havana Drum festival (Havana Rhythm & Dance Fest) everyone wound
down at the Occicental Miramar hotel lobby where Cuba’s top latin Jazz artists hosted jam sessions and open
concerts till the wee hours.
The week was a tremendous success and exhilarating experience for everyone. The 2012 KoSA Cuba &
Havana Drum Festival was generously sponsored by SABIAN, EVANS, PROMARK, and REGAL TIP.
The 2013 KoSA Cuba /Havana drum festival will take place March 3-10. For more information,please visit our website www.kosamusic.com or contact us via email at info@kosamusic.com
