Why does the particular combo of Havana jazz and classical precision come so naturally to Tiempo Libre?
This ensemble of accomplished musicians, led by founding pianist Jorge Gomez, are all Cuban-born and -raised. Now based in Miami, and American, these musicians credit their classical chops to the early formal music training under the Russian-directed communist government curriculum. By day, classical Russian training; by night, traditional Cuban rhythms and Havana jazz in their homes. The Cuban government banned access to American radio, so these band members, as teenagers, used coathangers and pie tins to construct an illegal radio tower. The U.S. jazz and rock and roll influences contributed to these boys’ dreams of performing their own brand of music on stage, outside Cuba. This sizzling band plays Southam Hall stage this week for Pops!
