Kalí Rodriguez-Peña

Modern Cuban Visionary

Fusing traditional Cuban rhythms with jazz classicism and modern grooves, this Latin Grammy-nominated trumpeter redefines the sound of contemporary Afro-Cuban music.

afro-cuban jazzlatin jazz

About

Havana-born trumpeter Kalí Rodriguez-Peña is a prominent voice in the New York jazz scene. A Manhattan School of Music graduate, he has collaborated with legends like Wynton Marsalis and Chucho Valdés. His work, including the acclaimed album Mélange, skillfully blends Afro-Cuban traditions with post-bop and contemporary influences.

Music Style

Rodriguez-Peña’s sound features a bold, bright trumpet tone and sophisticated arrangements. He merges traditional Cuban forms like habanera and mambo with jazz improvisation and complex modern harmonies.

Background

Hometown
Havana, Cuba
Education
Manhattan School of Music
Instruments
trumpet
Active
2010s–present

Similar Artists

If you like Arturo O'Farrill or Chucho Valdés, you'll love this artist.

Arturo O'Farrill
Frequent collaborator who also fuses traditional Cuban styles with modern orchestral and small-group jazz.
90%
Chucho Valdés
A direct collaborator and foundational figure in the Afro-Cuban jazz language that Rodriguez-Peña explores.
90%

Notable Collaborations

Wynton MarsalisChucho ValdésPaquito D'RiveraArturo O'FarrillMichel CamiloEsperanza Spalding
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