The acclaimed Failde Orchestra, a three-time Latin Grammy nominee celebrated for its revitalization of classic Cuban genres, is set to deliver two electrifying performances at Cartagena’s legendary Cafe Havana on January 30th and 31st. This engagement represents a significant cultural event, merging historical musical preservation with contemporary artistic expression.
Founded in 2012 to honor the legacy of Miguel Failde—the pioneering composer credited with creating the first danzon piece, ‘Las Alturas de Simpson’—the orchestra has established itself as a guardian of Cuba’s rich sonic heritage. While danzon serves as the foundational element of their repertoire, the ensemble masterfully navigates through danzonete, bolero, son, timba, mambo, and cha-cha-cha, occasionally weaving in modern influences to create a dynamic auditory experience.
The group’s instrumentation pays homage to the traditional Cuban charanga format popular throughout the 20th century, yet distinguishes itself with an augmented brass section. This innovative arrangement features alto saxophone/clarinet, trombone, and dual trumpets, creating a powerful and distinctive sound that honors tradition while pushing artistic boundaries.
Cafe Havana, located in the vibrant Getsemani district, provides the perfect backdrop for these performances. The iconic venue has built its reputation on promoting authentic Cuban salsa and other traditional rhythms through high-caliber live shows featuring virtuoso musicians and exceptionally talented dancers, making it a cultural hub for music aficionados.
The orchestra’s upcoming performances follow their recent professional milestone: a nomination for the 2025 Latin Grammy Award in the Best Traditional Tropical Album category for their critically acclaimed work ‘Caminando Piango Piango.’ This marks their third nomination from the Latin Recording Academy, significantly bolstering their international profile and validating their ongoing mission to preserve and innovate within the framework of traditional Cuban music.