Roberto Borrell

Master Latin percussionist born in Cuba. When Roberto was 18 he was noticed by Cuba's Conjunto Folklorico Nacional and asked to join the celebrated performance group. In a trial by-fire situation he was schooled in the traditional Orisha songs, dances and rhythms by the most renowned Afro-Cuban folkloric dancers and percussionists of the time. His innate talent and facility for learning allowed him to start performing with the group immediately. As Roberto continued to develop his performance skills he began to cultivate his abilities as a choreographer and musical director. Starting as the orchestra leader for his own group in Cuba, Union Cienfueguera, through to his highly successful San Francisco based orchestra, Moderna Tradicion, he continued to direct musical groups and shows for over 30 years. By the time Roberto left Cuba he had developed a wealth of knowledge and a diverse mastery of Cuban music and dance which also included dancing Rumba en la calle, excelling in playing the Bata for Tambores (Yoruba religious ceremonies), choreographing for Carnival and performing on the National Stage.