Interested in playing Cuban music?

El Rey Shangó Academy is a new ensemble and orchestra program for wind and string musicians who wish to develop through ensemble playing, concerts, masterclasses and an in-depth exploration of the Cuban musical tradition. The Academy builds upon the experience and musical tradition of El Rey Shangó Superior Orchestra, a project that since 2003 has brought together music students, amateur musicians and professionals through the rich musical heritage of Cuba.

As a Participant You Will

• Rehearse every other week

• Explore Cuban music from different eras and genres – from danzón, son and mambo to salsa, timba and contemporary styles

• Play in ensembles and orchestra settings

• Participate in masterclasses with professional musicians

• Become part of a generations-spanning musical community

• Build connections across generations and geographical borders

• Have opportunities to perform alongside professional musicians specializing in Cuban music at concerts and public events.

Planned Performance Opportunities

• Gothenburg – Autumn/Winter 2026

• Gothenburg – Winter/Spring 2027

Confirmed Performance OpportunitY

Fasching, Stockholm – March 2027

*Participation depends on ensemble placement, repertoire and artistic requirements.

Who Can Join?

We are primarily looking for musicians of all ages who are comfortable reading music. Backgrounds in classical music, jazz, big band or other ensemble traditions are all welcome.

Instrument Categories

• Brass instruments (trumpet, trombone, valve trombone, cornet, horn and related instruments)

• Woodwind instruments (saxophone, clarinet, flute and related instruments)

• Strings (violin, viola and cello )

(Other instruments may be considered depending on repertoire and ensemble needs. If you are interested, please let us know through the registration form. )

Experience El Rey Shangó Superior Orchestra

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Artistic Direction

Rolando Lara

Percussionist, musical director and educator with extensive experience in Cuban and Latin American music traditions. www.rolandolara.com

About El Rey Shangó Superior Orchestra

Led by Rolando Lara, El Rey Shangó Superior Orchestra brings together professional Cuban musicians and music students of all ages in a celebration of Cuban music across generations. The orchestra presents a musical journey through the rich traditions of Cuba, from son and mambo to salsa, timba and beyond.

Musical Mentors Through the Years

Over the years, the project has benefited from the collaboration and support of distinguished musicians and educators in the brass, woodwind and string traditions, including Klas Nilsson, Micke Högdahl and Karin Nygren.

Planned Schedule

The Academy is expected to begin in Autumn 2026 with rehearsals every other week.

Detailed schedule and registration information will be announced after the interest registration period.

Join El Rey Shangó Academy

Register your interest for Autumn 2026.