Cuban Son Day Celebrated with a Multitude of Events

A wide range of activities are being held across Cuba to mark Cuban Son Day, an annual celebration established by the late maestro Adalberto Álvarez (1948–2021). The date, May 8, was chosen to honor the birthdays of two iconic figures of the genre: Miguel Matamoros (1894) and Miguelito Cuní (1917).

The program features live performances by dance orchestras and concert bands in public squares and theaters, academic events exploring the history and global influence of Son, casino dance demonstrations, open dance classes, panel discussions, and tributes to influential artists who have helped elevate the genre.

From May 8 to 11, the Hero City of Santiago de Cuba will host a new edition of the Matamoros Son Festival, dedicated to the 510th anniversary of the city’s founding, the centennial of the legendary Trío Matamoros, and the musical legacy of maestro Electo Rosell (Chepín), according to an official press release.

In Havana, a major concert is being organized in collaboration with the Cubadisco International Fair and ARTEX. Set to take place at the Salón Rosado de la Tropical on the afternoon of May 8, the show will feature performances by the legendary Septeto Habanero, Conjunto Chappottín, and the King of Repentismo, Cándido Fabré and his band.

With support from cultural institutions, artistic companies, and local governments, the Cuban Institute of Music is spearheading the largest number of events for Cuban Son Day—an increasingly anticipated celebration in Cuba and abroad since its inception in 2019.

Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez