MUSIC
ALFREDO RODRIGUEZ & PEDRITO MARTINEZ
Saturday, February 7, 2026
7:30PM
The Lorraine Boccardo Theater
“Their styles blend to create songs with aching lyricism, watercolor soundscapes that are driven by captivating mambo grooves.”
— Jazztimes
Alfredo Rodríguez & Pedrito Martinez bring an electrifying conversation of rhythm, melody, and cultural heritage to the Center for the Arts at Kayenta. What begins as an intimate exchange between piano, percussion, and voice quickly erupts into a thrilling, improvisation-driven performance that blurs the lines between classical precision, Afro-Cuban tradition, and modern jazz.
Grammy-nominated pianist Alfredo Rodríguez, a Havana conservatory prodigy discovered by Quincy Jones, commands the keyboard with a style shaped as much by Bach and Stravinsky as by Cuban son and jazz. Percussionist and vocalist Pedrito Martinez, forged in the folkloric traditions of Old Havana’s streets, delivers visceral rhythms and soaring vocals rooted in Afro-Cuban spiritual and popular music. Each artist is a master in his own right; together, they form a rare and powerful musical dialogue.
Their collaboration is spontaneous, fearless, and deeply expressive—moving seamlessly from traditional Cuban songs to daring originals and unexpected reinterpretations. With moments of breathtaking virtuosity and irresistible groove, Rodríguez and Martinez create music that feels both ancient and boldly contemporary.
Their acclaimed album Duologue, produced by Quincy Jones, and their limited live appearances have established them as one of the most compelling duos on today’s global music stage. Audiences can expect an unforgettable evening of passion, precision, and rhythmic fire—music that speaks across cultures and straight to the soul.
Kayenta Arts’s presentation of the Alfredo Rodriguez & Pedrito Martinez is supported through a Chamber Music America Presenter Consortium for Jazz grant in collaboration with UtahPresents and Vilar Performing Arts Center.
A component of the Doris Duke Jazz Ensembles Project, Presenter Consortium for Jazz is funded by the Doris Duke Foundation.
