Anibal Cruz
Cuban pianist, composer, and arranger Anibal Cruz has been honing his craft from the young age of 8 years old. Originally a classical musician, Cruz began blending his Afrocuban jazz influences like Chuco Valdez, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, and Tony Perez with jazz icons like Keith Jarret, Herbie Hancock, and Wynton Kelly.
After graduating from the Conservatory Jose White in Camaguey, and the University of Arts (ISA) in Havana, Cruz performed for two years before receiving a scholarship to Berklee in Boston in 2013. His presence in the Latin Music industry across New England is partially due to leading Clave & Blues and The Blue Island Project, as well as touring with Latin artist Manolo Mairena, world jazz group DeJan, and performing music arranged by Musical Director and Paco De Lucia’s bassist Alain Pérez with Cucú Diamentes. Cruz has participated in masterclasses with legends including John Patitucci, Victor Wooten, Stephany Tiernan, and Oscar Stagnaro. Some of Cruz’s latest recordings include “Coffe Gold Sugar Cane” by Flavio Lira, “Desde Lejos” by Juan Ruiz and an appearance on “Illegal Grooves” by composer Nacho Gonzales alongside John Patitucci, George Garzone, Hugo Fattoruso and Nando Michelin