Septeto Nacional de Ignacio Pineiro

Founded in 1927 by Havana-born bassist and vocalist Ignacio Piniero, Septeto Nacional De Ignacio Piniero have shaped Cuban music across more than seven decades. As early innovators of Son—the rhythmic fusion of African and Cuban traditions that later gave rise to Salsa, the Mambo, and Latin jazz—the ensemble became the first Son group to feature trumpet in a lead role. Their appearance at the 1928 World Exposition in Seville brought worldwide attention, and they are credited as the first ensemble to reference “salsa” in the 1933 recording “Echale Salsita.” Piniero wrote the piece, which George Gershwin later used as the opening theme for his “Cuban Overture.” After Piniero’s death in 1968, ending his 41-year tenure, a succession of directors guided the group. Guitarist and composer Rafael Ortiz assumed leadership following Piniero’s passing and passed the role to lead singer Carlos Embale in 1982. When Embale stepped down because of illness in 1998, guitarist Richard Aymee Castro took over. Staying faithful to their foundational style, Septeto Nacional De Ignacio Piniero continue to deliver a dance-inspiring blend of montano, merengue, bolero, rumba, and cha cha cha.