When winter days grow colder, snowier, and darker, it’s the perfect time for Christmas Jazz! And what better way to warm the soul than with a cocktail of Cuban rhythms blended with original compositions, timeless classics, and a sprinkle of Christmas cheer? This magical mix was exactly what the audience in Kumu experienced on December 1st, courtesy of the extraordinary Cuban pianist and composer Alfredo Rodriguez!
Alfredo Rodriguez is a virtuoso pianist who began his musical journey studying classical piano in Havana, Cuba. His deep passion for music, relentless dedication, and extraordinary talent eventually led him to cross borders and arrive in the United States in 2006. There, he began a transformative collaboration with the legendary producer Quincy Jones, who quickly recognized the extraordinary talent of the then 21-year-old musician.
Today, Alfredo Rodríguez tours the world, performing both with his band and as a solo artist, sharing his culture through music. His concerts are not confined to any single genre. Thanks to his extraordinary talent and classical training, he offers something for everyone – a blend of Cuban rhythms, classical influences, original compositions from his albums, and, of course, improvisation. This rich and diverse musical experience was exactly what he brought to the Estonian audience on the first day of winter.
At the beginning of the concert, Rodriguez shared with the audience that he hadn’t realized he would be performing at a jazz festival, let alone a Christmas Jazz event. Despite not being fully prepared for the holiday theme, he delighted the local audience with an impromptu and heartfelt rendition of Silent Night, showcasing his adaptability and talent.
It was fascinating to witness the concert program take shape right before our eyes! While Alfredo surely had some plan in mind, he often seemed to simply go with the flow, playing pieces that felt right for the moment, right here and now. These spontaneous decisions added a unique charm to the evening, allowing us to immerse ourselves in authentic Cuban rhythms. The vibrant energy of his music was a perfect contrast to the windy and snowy December night.
As a proud native of Havana, Rodriguez stays deeply connected to his roots, and this connection shines through in his repertoire. Whether performing solo or with a band, he never fails to include some of Cuba’s most iconic songs, celebrating his heritage with every note. Among these is Ay Mama Inés, a classic described nearly a century ago by Vanity Fair as “the song of Cuba” (1933). This infectious piece has the power to make anyone move, no exceptions! And then, there’s Quizás, Quizás, Quizás – the timeless global hit that needs no introduction. Its familiar melody brought the Estonian audience to life, sparking a heartfelt singalong with Rodriguez at the piano.
One of the most unforgettable moments of the evening was Alfredo Rodriguez’s performance of his original composition, Blueberry Fields (2023). The piece was a delightful blend of lightness and playfulness, evoking the carefree essence of summer. As the music unfolded, it transformed into something truly magical – at one point, the piano mimicked the delicate sound of the first drops of rain or perhaps a gentle stream. The auditorium was wrapped in complete silence, as if nobody dared to breathe. Those delicate, crystalline notes created an atmosphere so enchanting, it felt like time itself had paused. Truly fascinating!
Rodriguez shared a heartfelt moment with the audience, revealing that he has been dedicating all his recent concerts to his former producer, Quincy Jones, who passed away just a month ago, in November. Jones played an immeasurable role in shaping Rodriguez’s career, guiding and mentoring him from the very beginning. As a tribute to Jones’ extraordinary legacy, Rodriguez performed Thriller – the iconic anthem of Michael Jackson, produced by Quincy Jones in 1982.
The perfect conclusion to this mesmerizing concert was Alfredo Rodriguez’s interpretation of the Cuban classic Guantanamera. This nearly century-old song, originally composed in 1929, holds a special place in Cuban musical heritage – and in Rodriguez’s career. His innovative arrangement of Guantanamera earned him his first Grammy nomination in 2015 for Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella. The evening ended with a heartfelt standing ovation from the Estonian audience, a gesture that spoke louder than words.
Gracias, señor Rodriguez, for an unforgettable evening! What sets truly talented musicians apart is their extraordinary ability to transport listeners across time, space, and emotions with their music. Alfredo Rodriguez’s performance was a masterclass in this craft, showcasing the power of a single instrument – his piano – to evoke smiles, nostalgia, dreams, and wonder. In just 90 minutes, we journeyed through the vibrant streets of Cuba, embraced the warmth of Christmas spirit, strolled through blueberry fields, marveled at the energy of a Michael Jackson classic, and found ourselves immersed in the elegance of classical compositions. It was a dynamic and delightful jukebox of experiences, expertly woven together by Rodriguez’s genius.
Alfredo Rodriguez
1st of December 2024, 7 pm at KUMU auditorium
Photo: Teet Raik