Javier Zalba

About Javier Zalba

Javier Zalba graduated from the Cuban National School of Arts (ENA) as a clarinetist in 1976 and in 1984 as a flutist from the Professional Studies School „Ignacio Cervantes.“  He began his professional career as a clarinet teacher at the ENA in 1978. In the very same year, he became a member of the “Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna” and in 1980 he joined the group of the well-recognized pianist Felipe Dulzaides.

In the following years he was a member of numerous influential Cuban formations (Irakere, Cubanismo, Temperamento, Afrojazz and many more). In the year 2000, he joined the Buena Vista Social Club Orchestra around singer Ibrahim Ferrer performing at the most prestigious venues around the world.

Throughout all this time he has combined these musical activities with classical music. He has been invited to join the Cuban National Symphony Orchestra in Havana and many other chamber music ensembles as a member and soloist several times.

Javier also works as a teacher giving master classes in jazz and Cuban popular music.