Artists

“Fonseca has a gift for melody that outshines many more celebrated peers, yet his virtuosity and invention mean he can hold his own at any jazz club in the world.” - The Guardian

Roberto Fonseca is one of the most gifted and charismatic musicians to emerge from Cuba in recent times. He succeeded the legendary Ruben Gonzalez as pianist for the Buena Vista Social Club, and has toured the world with Cuban greats Omara Portuondo and Ibrahim Ferrer.  For his Wellington Jazz Festival appearance he takes the stage with his Quintet.

Fonseca began studying the piano as a child, though his initial passion was for percussion. This early interest can be heard in his trademark "percussive" piano-playing style.

His latest album, Zamazu, was hailed as "one of the classiest world-jazz albums of the year" by The Guardian, Fonseca's compositions drawing on his Afro-Cuban heritage and deep love of jazz, funk and soul.

For a sneak preview of Roberto Fonseca's concert, check out the track "Zamazu" from the album Zamazu, on the Wellington Jazz Festival jukebox.

Listen to Roberto Fonseca

Event information

Roberto Fonseca official link: http://www.myspace.com/robertofonseca