Pavel Urkiza is an internationally renowned Cuban musician, composer, producer, and arranger. Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, and raised in Havana, Cuba, amidst the tumultuous years of the Cuban Revolution, Pavel's artistic lineage is deeply rooted in his grandfather, a notable composer and singer.
In his late teens, Pavel embraced his musical heritage, forming the successful duo "Gema y Pavel" with Cuban singer Gema Corredera. This marked a pivotal moment, propelling them across the Americas, the Caribbean, and Europe, sharing stages with luminaries like Alejandro Sanz, Tito Puente, and Herbie Hancock. Their European tours included prestigious venues and festivals, cementing their place in Cuban music history.
After parting ways with Gema, Pavel pursued a solo career, exploring diverse musical realms. His respect for Cuba's musical legacy, combined with 22 years of European influence, gave rise to a unique style blending Afro-Cuban, Ibero-American, and Mediterranean flavors, showcased in rhythms like Filin progresivo, Guaguancó-Flamenco, and Trova-Jazz.
Pavel's discography boasts over 40 compositions across a dozen albums and compilations, showcasing his versatility. His collaborative spirit shines through productions for artists like Ana Torroja, Miguel Bosé, and Luis Enrique. Notably, he co-produced the album "Dentro y Fuera" with Luis Enrique and contributed to John Santos' "Caribbean Philosophy".
Beyond performing and recording, Pavel's artistic contributions extend to theater and cinema, including the soundtrack for "Las Noches de Constantinopla." His monumental production, the music documentary "La Ruta de las Almas," explores Ibero-American musical roots and features 85 musicians, accompanied by an original album.
Ongoing projects like "De Akokán" with Ricardo Pons and "Congrí Ensemble" showcase Pavel's versatility which fuses jazz, bolero, and Caribbean rhythms, while "Congrí Ensemble" interprets Cuban music from 1851 to 1941 in a classical chamber format.
Pavel Urkiza, with his diverse musical palette and unwavering dedication, remains a stalwart contributor to the rich tapestry of Cuban and world music. His ongoing projects promise to captivate audiences and further solidify his place as a musical trailblazer.
