In Concert

DANZÓN - The Music of 19th-Century Cuba and Beyond

Featuring Maestro Bobby Ramírez, Flute Soloist
with Symphony String Orchestra

Concept Overview

“Danzón” is a concert celebration of Cuba’s elegant and soulful musical heritage—where European classical traditions met Afro-Cuban rhythms to create one of Latin America’s most refined art forms. This performance, led by internationally acclaimed Cuban-American flutist Maestro Bobby Ramírez, explores the genealogy of the danzón, tracing its roots from early contradanzas and habaneras of the 19th century to the modern orchestral danzón.

Through a program of historically significant works and newly arranged orchestral transcriptions, the concert illuminates the evolution of Cuban salon music, from the piano of Miguel Faílde—credited with composing the first danzón—through the lyrical dances of Ignacio Cervantes, and the passionate romanticism of José White and Saumell.

The performance combines authenticity, scholarship, and expressive artistry to bring to life the sounds of a vibrant cultural era where Havana rivaled Paris as a center of musical sophistication.

Featured Soloist

Maestro Bobby Ramírez
Flute, Saxophone, Composer, book author and Cultural Historian
Founder of the Jazzonian Jazz Museum and Instituto Folklórico Cubano Americano, Maestro Ramírez is recognized for his elegant tone, expressive phrasing, and deep understanding of Latin musical forms. His artistry bridges concert performance with cultural storytelling, making “Danzón” a uniquely immersive experience for audiences.

Instrumentation

• Flute soloist

• String orchestra (6-5-4-3-2 or full symphonic complement)

• Optional piano, bass guitar and percussion (for selected works)
  

Concert Program

SET I — The Roots of the Danzón

1. Miguel Saumell Robredo (1818–1870) – Contradanzas Cubanas (selection)

   • “La Tedezco”

   • “La Amistad”

   • “El Pañuelo”

2. Sebastián Iradier (1809–1865) – La Paloma (Habanera)

3. Ignacio Cervantes (1847–1905) – Danzas Cubanas (selections)

   • “Adiós a Cuba”

   • “Los Tres Golpes”

   • “Ilusiones Perdidas”

4. José White (1836–1918) – La Bella Cubana

5. Miguel Faílde (1852–1921) – Las Alturas de Simpson (The first danzón, 1879)

— Intermission —

SET II — Danzón and Its Legacy

1. Antonio María Romeu (1876–1955) – El Cadete Constitucional

2. Aniceto Díaz (1887–1964) – Nuevo Ritmo (Danzonete)

3. Arturo Márquez (b. 1950) – Danzón No. 2

4. Maestro Bobby Ramírez (b. Santa Clara) – Ritmo del Alma (World Premiere)

   • Original composition honoring the Cuban flute tradition and the evolution of danzón into modern Latin jazz.

5. Ensemble Encore: La Reinita de Ritmo! Danzon (original composition by Maestro Bobby Ramirez)
   

Total Duration

Approx. 90 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission

Technical & Stage Requirements

• Minimum stage size: 40’ wide x 25’ deep

• Standard orchestral shell or acoustic risers

• 1 wireless lavalier microphone for narration (optional)

• Adequate lighting for soloist and ensemble
  

Marketing & Educational Components

• Pre-concert talk: “The Genealogy of the Danzón” with Maestro Ramírez

• Optional masterclass: “The Cuban Flute Tradition and Orchestral Danzón”

• Educational study guide for schools and community outreach
  

Contact & Booking

Maestro Bobby Ramírez
Email: info@maestrobobbyramirez.com
Website: maestrobobbyramirez.com
Presented by: Instituto Folklórico Cubano Americano

Artistic Services Offered

Explore the diverse musical talents of Maestro Bobby Ramirez.

Live Performances Available

Experience captivating live performances by Maestro Bobby Ramirez, showcasing his musical expertise.

Music Education Services

Join Maestro Bobby Ramirez for engaging music education sessions tailored for all skill levels.

Custom Compositions and Arrangements

Unique compositions and arrangements crafted by Maestro Bobby Ramirez for various musical projects.