Omar studied classical music at the Escuela Nacional de Arte in Havana, also instituto superior de Artes in Havana. He has toured with Buena Vista’s Ruben Gonzales, supported Tito Puente, Ibraham Ferrer and Omara Portundo.
He has collaborated with John Williams, Kirsty MacColl, Jools Holland, Eddie Palmieri, Winston Marsalis’ Jazz at Lincoln Centre Orchestra at the Barbican Centre, Simon Bolivar Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall, Nigel Kennedy, Eddie Palmieri at Queen Elizabeth Hall and with several members of the Buena Vista Social Club.
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Qualifications
Licenciado in Music: Masters Degree Performance and Teaching, Instituto Superior de Arte, Habana, 1981-86. First Study Violin. Graduated top of the class.
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Awards
Latin Lukas Awards 'Jazz act of the year' 2017 & 2018
Teaching
I have taught extensively and published a university level textbook on Cuban music. I have taught at the UK’s most prestigious music colleges, the national music school and conservatoire in Havana, Cuba. I have absorbed musical influences from around the globe and am developing a unique fusion for my forthcoming jazz album, "Best Foot Forward".
Teaching allows me to give developing musicians, both young and old, the tools to develop their own style and individual voice. I enjoy being a part of their journey, and I am in turn inspired.