Schooled in the rigorous classical conservatories of Havana, Cuban-born pianist Alfredo Rodriguez’s riveting artistry is informed as much by Bach and Stravinsky as it is by his Cuban and jazz roots. Discovered at the 2006 Montreux Jazz Festival by Quincy Jones, Rodriguez has distinguished himself as the definition of jazz and improvisation without boundaries.

Rodriguez relocated from Cuba to the United States, crossing the border from Mexico with nothing but his suitcase and the clothes on his back. Reconnecting with Jones, Rodriguez re-established his career in the United States. His artistry has earned him frequent appearances on some of the world’s most prestigious stages and a 2015 Grammy Award nomination for “Best Arrangement, Instrumental, or A Cappella,” for the track “Guantanamera,” from his 2014 release, The Invasion Parade.