18 April: The Latin Bridge
The second in the series of ‘Our Music Planet’ Festival concerts is a celebration of the music from Latin America. We welcome The Latin Bridge on their first visit to Calstock Arts. It is a vocal and instrumental Latin/Cuban project that was formed in 2016 by the experienced Cuban musician Sergio Marciano Pereda. Joining Sergio (guitar/vocals) is Cristiano Rocha Assis (trumpet), Aldofredo Pulido (bass) and Yosmany González García (percussion). A dynamic and vibrant band that are always in a ‘Latin Key’, bringing the rich rhythms and soul of Latin music to life. Expect a swinging Saturday evening of traditional Cuban Folk, and from infectious dance grooves (Salsa, Bossa Nova, Rumba, Son..) to passionate Boleros ballads. “From intimate whispers to full-throttle rhythm, the band delivers a journey through sound that is both thrilling and heartfelt”.
The diverse styles of Latin American music offer a musical journey through different cultures and histories, enriching the global music world with its vibrant rhythms and soulful melodies. Its roots can be traced back to the colonisation of the Americas by Spain, bringing with it European musical traditions. When blended with African rhythms and the indigenous musical heritage of the Americas, a unique and colourful music was created. In essence, the diversity, rhythm, and danceable nature of Latin music make it a much loved genre that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers. Its ability to evoke emotions, inspire movement, and tell compelling stories through music is why Latin American music is so cherished by people around the world. Here is a taster of what you can expect:
https://youtu.be/cELxGefX3GY?si=MdBbPObBs-AtDReE
“Their performance glows with sun-drenched lyricism, effortless interplay and a deep sense of Cuban soul.”
Sergio Marciano was born in Santiago de Cuba and moved to Havana to commence his musical studies in 1989. Before moving to the UK in 2014, he lived and worked in Spain gaining substantial experience as a session musician and record producer. Sergio has performed extensively in concert venues and festivals in more than 25 countries around the world and has recorded with numerous artists and bands. He continues to be a highly-respected figure on the UK’s Latin music scene.
Cristiano Rocha is originally from Brasilia in Brazil, and first picked up a trumpet when he was 14 and then taught himself how to play! In 2002, he travelled to Europe where he performed for 3 years as lead trumpeter in the famous Italian Circus troupe – ‘Lidia Togni’. Since moving to London in 2006, he has performed with a number of jazz, Bossa Nova and soul bands including a collaboration with London-based Brazilian multi-instrumentalist, Gui Tavares.
Adolfredo Pulido was born in Venezuela and by the age of 7 was playing drums, then tuba, trumpet and trombone before taking up bass at the age of 14. Having studied at music school in Venezuela, he moved to the USA and graduated from the Berklee music school
in 2003. Now based in the UK, Alfredo is much in demand around Europe on the Latin, Jazz and World Music circuits, performing with acclaimed artists and celebrated for his versatility, technical skill, and cultural understanding.
Yosmany González was born in Boyeros, Cuba. He is a versatile percussionist whose career bridges traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms and contemporary world music. Since relocating to the United Kingdom, he has become an active presence in the Latin and fusion scenes, performing with various ensembles. His rhythmic approach blends authenticity and innovation, carrying forward the spirit of Cuban percussion while engaging in contemporary dialogues with musicians from around the world.
