 Melena, born in Havana Cuba, has mastered the traditional rhythms that have traveled from Africa to Cuba, to the dance floors of America. Her Afro-Cuban sound is a conversation of melodies which she plays with fierce passion. Melena is a multi-talented percussionist who plays Congas, Timbales, Bata Drums, and Shekere. She is an artist who exemplifies the sound of legendary players from the past, to the modern sound of today.
Melena’s formal training began on the drums when she was a teenager. Master percussionist Luis Conte was instrumental in shaping her early development. Melena returned to her native country of HavanaCuba several times to study privately with the Conjunto Folklorico Nacional De Cuba, as well as with many gifted percussionists on the island such as: Miguel “Anga” Diaz, Yaroldy Abreu, Jose Miguel Melendez, Roberto Vizcaino Guillot, Adel Gonzalez, Cristobal Larrinanga, Mario Jauregui, Daniel Herrera, an Jose “Pepe” Espinosa. Melena has toured, performed, and recorded with legendary artists such as: Barry White, Stevie Wonder, Macy Gray, Julio Iglesias, and Chayanne. Melena fronts her own Latin Jazz and Afro Cuban Salsa band. Festivals Melena has performed at with her band include: Jazz at Drew, African Village Festival, Santa Barbara Caribbean Festival and Brownsville Latin Jazzz Festival, where Melena was blessed to share the same stage with her biggest inspiration, Giovanni Hidalgo! |
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