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There is a legacy of great piano players from Cuba, and Chuchito Valdés has certainly done well after following a road paved by his famed father Chucho Valdés and grandfather Bebo Valdés. Expect to hear some son, danzon, Cuban timba and guaguanco at this gig where Valdés’s IQ (he has extensively studied classical music including harmony and composition) and many influences will shine.
If Friday’s Chuchito Valdés show isn't enough to scratch the Cuban jazz itch, then a midweek trip to the Straz Center is in order. That’s where the 11-piece Havana Cuba All-Stars — along with some of the country’s best dancers — will utilize congas, guitars, trombones, trumpets and an array of percussion to deliver a performance that’ll have you up and out of your cushy theater seat.
Chuchito Valdés Trio Fri. Feb. 22, 8 p.m. Sold Out. Side Door Cabaret at Palladium Theater, 253 5th Ave N. St. Petersburg. SOLD OUT
Havana Cuba All-Stars Wed. Feb. 27, 8 p.m. $30.50 & up. Ferguson Hall at David A. Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 N Macinnes Pl., Tampa. INFO
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This article appears in Feb 14-21, 2019.