Month: August 2023

Cell: 305-542-2544
E Mail: edwinbonilla23@hotmail.com

Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico raised in Elizabeth, NJ. Started playing at a very early age. By the age of 14, I was already playing with some of the best local bands in New Jersey. As A percussionist, I am familiarized with rhythmic patterns the world over, as my professional experiences include performances and recordings in jazz, rock, soca, pop, Cuban, Puerto Rican, Indian, and Brazilian music. Aside from participating in more than 1000 recordings, during the last 17 years’ continuous studio and performing work, including videos, movie scores and jingles, kept me in the forefront of several developments in the music industry, as well as some of its most important figures and groups. On July 8, 1999, “Edwin y su Son” was my first release as a leader, of which “Soy la candela” is the second step, released on March 14, 2002. Both recordings achieved high volume of sales and the international support of audiences, radio and dancing club programmers, as well as critics. Also, third CD, “Pa’ la calle” released in March 15, 2004, which also has been highly acclaimed the world over. In 2006, Edwin completed a special Charanga CD with his long time friend and compadre Jesus “el Nino” Perez, “Tirando Pa’ Charanga”. In 2010 released “Homenaje A Los Rumberos” and Infinito in 2012.

Edwin Bonilla y Su Orquesta has performed live in the “Fiesta Salsa y Toro” in France, in San Francisco, Seattle Washington, Toronto Canada, New York City in S. O. B’s, and in The Miami International Salsa Congress. Miami Calle Ocho yearly Festival from 2005 thru present, Tampa Salsa Congress, Guayaquil Ecuador Salsa Fest, and we have also, recorded live performances in TLC’s show “Fak’n It”. The Orquesta appearance and original music featured in Paramount Pictures New TV Series “South Beach” produced by Jennifer Lopez, staring, Vanessa Williams and Steven Baur. Music also features in instructional dance video by The Salsa Lovers School for Dancers, founded by Rene Geitz. Edwin y Su Orquesta has also performed live with Cuban Pete & Barbara Craddock (the legendary New York City’s Palladium’s Mambo Dancers.) Two of my CD’s “Homenaje a los Rumberos” has received 3 Grammy Nominations and “Infinito” has received 1 Grammy Nominations.

Of the aforementioned 1000+ recording projects, the following is just a sampling of some of the most important: Gloria Estefan-Grammy Winner, Azúcar Moreno, Madonna, No Mercy, Dave Grusin, Eric Byrne, ‘N Sync, Hansel y Raul, Julio Iglesias, Tito Puente Jr., Jose Feliciano, Roberto Torres, Tony Bennett, Monguito el Unico, Stevie Wonder, La Charanga Casino, Patti Labelle, Wilfrido Vargas, Celine Dion, Shalim Ortiz, Bellamy Brothers, Thalia, Lenny Kravitz, Shakira, Quincy Jones’-Jook Joint-Grammy Winner, Barrio Boys, Frank Sinatra-Duets II-Grammy Winner, Jose Luis Rodriguez “El Puma”, John Secada’s – “Amor”-Grammy Winner, Franco de Vita, Arturo Sandoval-Hot House- Grammy Winner, Carlos Ponce, Roberto Blades-Encore-Grammy Winner, Manhattan

Transfer, Israel Lopez “Cachao”, Jimmy Smith, Gypsy Kings, Marc Anthony, Jerry Rivera, Alejandro Fernandez, Alexandre Pires, Juan Luis Guerra, Paulina Rubio, Ricky Martin, Lucero, Los Ilegales, Jennifer Lopez, Nestor Torres-This Side of Paradise- Grammy Winner, Maru, Sopa pa contrario, Chayanne, Alejandra Bassi, Raul DeBlasio, Viva Nativa, Hansel Martinez, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Donna Summers, and the legendary’ James Brown. Perry Ferrell, Juanes, Paquito De Rivera, Esperansa Spalding, Luis Fonsi, Donna Summers, Willie Chirino, and Dave Valentine

TV appearances, mostly with Gloria Estefan, including: World Music Awards, Arsenio Hall, American Music Awards, White House Christmas Special, Grammy Awards (New York, 1994), Vatican Concert for the Pope, Super Bowl-’95-Patti Labelle, ’99-Gloria Estefan and Stevie Wonder, Acapulco “93”, Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Fox Club House, David Letterman. Top of the Pop’s London VH1 Honors, Live by Request, Oprah Winfrey, Americanos PBS Special, Rosie O’Donnell, The View, Today Show, Hispanic Heritage Awards ’99 – present, Regis And Kathy Lee, Donny and Marie Show, Caribbean Soul Special or “alma Caribeña” with Gloria Estefan from The Bahamas and the Millennium Concert, “Unwrapped”- Gloria Estefan in Cesar’s Palace Las Vegas, and American Idol, as well as various shows throughout Europe, South America, Japan, Recently appeared and played in Broadway show “On Your Feet”

I have recorded in the following movie soundtracks: Anastasia-Walt Disney, Mark of Zorro, The Specialist, Make Me Dance, Something about Mary (also Appeared in the movie), Evita, The Perez Family, Steal Big Steal Little, Music of My Heart, Ramdon Thoughts, Money Train, and in the Grammy awarded production of Sesame Street 25th Anniversary Elmopalooza (also appeared in video), Empire, and Chasing Papi.

Aside from my own band, the following list reflect the nature and scope of some of the groups and artist, I have performed, or still currently performing, with: Gloria Estefan, the late, Maestro Israel Lopez “Cachao”, The New World Symphony, Jimmy Smith, Stevie Wonder, Ed Calle, Hansel Y Raul, Nestor Torres, Miami Sound Machine, Arturo Sandoval and etc.

Endorser’s: Latin Percussion (LP), Zildjian, Vic Firth, Remo, Drum Kat, and Audix Mic.

Rene Guim Interview with Edwin Bonilla

Interview with Edwin Bonilla – EP12

VIVIAN PUPO (786) 318-4384
LUIS VILLANUEVA (786) 355-7710
https://www.instagram.com/miamigirlstumbao/
miamigirlstumbao@gmail.com

The Miami Girls Tumbao Group is a collective of talented and professionally trained Cuban women musicians based in Miami. Formed in late 2017, these seven musicians share similar musical backgrounds and a passion for Latin and Afro-Cuban music. They bring a unique blend of virtuosity, elegance, and contemporary flair to their performances.

Each with their academic training in their respective instruments, the group\\\’s main focus is on rescuing and reviving Cuban and Latin dance music. They aim to bring life to these genres and promote live music experiences. Since their debut performance in January 2018, Miami Girls Tumbao has been captivating audiences with their original sound, strong vocal performances, dynamic stage presence, and engaging interactions with the crowd.

Their performances encompass a diverse range of Latin music styles, including Bachata, Salsa, Merengue, Kizomba, and more. This versatility allows them to provide unmatched entertainment for various settings and festivities. Whether in a formal venue or at a lively celebration, Miami Girls Tumbao\\\’s performances create an unforgettable musical journey through the rich tapestry of Latin rhythms.

Este grupo con sede en Miami se formo a finales 2017, todas las mujeres de esta agrupación, son músicos profesionales mayormente cubanas con antecedentes musicales similares. Se unen para tocar su propio estilo de música latina y afrocubana, poderosamente virtuosa pero elegante y contemporánea. Estas 7 mujeres, todas de formación musical academica en sus respectivos instrumentos, han asumido la tarea de rescatar la música bailable cubana y latina. Los amantes del baile de este género musical seguramente disfrutarán bailando al ritmo de Miami Girls Tumbao, cuyo objetivo principal es promover la música en vivo. Han deleitado al público desde su primera actuación en Miami desde Enero del 2018, cautivando al público con su sonido original, voces potentes, presencia escénica e interacción con el público. HACIENDO UN RECORRIDO POR LA MUSICA LATINA QUE VA DESDE LA BACHATA, LA SALSA, EL MERENGUE, LA KIZOMBA, ETC…. ES UN ESPECTACULO INIGUALABLE PARA AMENIZAR EN CUALQUIER ESCENARIO, O FESTIVIDAD.

VIDEO LINKS: 

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

Evelyn is an accomplished and versatile music educator with a wide range of teaching experience in both the United States and Cuba. Since August 2019, she has held the position of General Elementary Music Teacher at Lincoln Marti Charter School in Little Havana, where she instructs young students in the fundamentals of music. In addition to her elementary role, Evelyn also serves as the Middle School and High School Band Teacher, guiding older students in developing their instrumental skills and fostering a passion for music.

Evelyn\\\’s dedication to music education extends beyond the classroom. From March 2017 to 2020, she was actively involved as a Flute Instructor, Piano Instructor, Theory and Harmony Instructor, as well as an Ensemble Instructor and Summer Camp Instructor at Let It Beat Music Academy in Miami, Florida. During her time there, she helped students refine their flute and piano playing techniques, grasp essential theoretical concepts, and collaborate effectively within musical ensembles.

Evelyn\\\’s expertise has also been recognized at Dade Music Academy in Miami, where she worked as a Piano Instructor from January 2018 to 2019. Her proficiency in teaching various instruments and aspects of music theory contributed to the development of well-rounded musicians.

Evelyn\\\’s international experience includes her time at the National School of Art in Havana, Cuba. From September 2016 to January 2017, she served as a Flute Instructor, nurturing the talents of students in a different cultural context. She also was a Music Instructor {Wood Ensemble} at National School of Art,Habana,Cuba from September 2009 to June 2010.

Throughout her career, Evelyn has engaged in continuous professional development. In April 2008, she conducted a Master Class at the National School of Art and she has been providing Private Lessons since 2009, offering personalized instruction to individuals seeking to enhance their musical abilities.

EDUCATION 

Evelyn\\\’s educational journey reflects her dedication to both music and psychology, resulting in a well-rounded background that enriches her approach as an educator. She holds a Master\\\’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychological Development from San Jorge University in Spain, a qualification attained in 2023. This advanced degree equips her with a deep understanding of the cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of young minds, enhancing her ability to connect with and guide her students effectively.

Evelyn\\\’s passion for music is evident in her educational accomplishments as well. She earned a Bachelor of Music degree with a specialization in Flute Performance from the Superior Institute of Art in Havana, Cuba, in 2012. This foundational training equipped her with exceptional flute playing skills and a comprehensive understanding of musical theory and practice.

Her educational journey began earlier at the National School of Art in Havana, Cuba, where she completed her High School Diploma in 2007. This period laid the groundwork for her future musical pursuits and set the stage for her subsequent academic and professional achievements.

Evelyn\\\’s academic path, which encompasses the fields of music and psychology, reflects her multidisciplinary approach to education and her commitment to holistic development. Her diverse educational background, spanning different countries and disciplines, undoubtedly contributes to her effectiveness as an educator who not only imparts musical knowledge and skills but also understands the cognitive and emotional needs of her students.

PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCE

RECORDINGS 

      .   CD Identidad MAKE Sound [Music Producer and Flute](2020)     

• DVD: Anais Abreu. Record Label Colibrí. (2017)
• CD: Valdes Brothers. Record Label Colibrí [Flute] (2016)
• Sound track for documentary titled \\\”The Cuban Bus.\\\” Independent Recording. (2016)
• CD: EMA Peri. Independent Recording. [Flute] (2016)
• CD: La vuelta al mundo [Alexander Abreu and Havana de Primera] Record Label Unicornio [Flute] [Grand Prize winner for Cubadisco 2015 and in Popular Dance Music] (2015)
• Movie Soundtrack for \\\”El Rey Del Barrio.\\\” Music Composed by Ulises Márquez [Flute] (2014)
• CD and DVD: Madre Tierra. Joven All Star del Jazz Cubano [Michel Herrera.] Record Label Colibrí [Flute][Prize winner for Cubadisco 2014 in Audiovisual] (2013)
• CD: Trance [Yoandry Argudin.] Record Label Colibrí [Flute] (2013)
• CD: Mambazo [Joaquín Betancourt´s jazz band] Record Label Colibrí [Flute, Piccolo, and Choir] (2013)
• CD: La Quenistica [Rodrigo Soza.] Independent Recording [Musical Producer] (2012-2013)
• CD and DVD: Percusión Cubana. Record Label Colibrí [Flute] [Special prize Cubadisco 2014] (2012)
• CD: Havana Now Danzon [Alejandro Falcón.] Record Label Colibrí [Flute][Prize winner for Cubadisco 2015 in Recording and Instrumental Music](2012)
• CD: Sueños del pequeño Quin: [Joaquín Betancourt´s jazz band] Record Label Colibrí [Special prize Cubadisco 2012] [Flute and Piccolo] (2010)
• CD: Alegres Camaradas: [José Miguel Crego el Greco] Independent Recording [Flute](2010)
• CD: For du vender om [Tine Bacher] Independent Recording [Flute](2010)
• Music for a French documentary titled Havana Muda [Flute](2010)
• CD: En la espera: [Michel Herrera.]  Record Label Colibrí [Flute][Second Place for Latin Beat Magazine] (2009)

TOURS

• Irene Rodriguez Company, the Joyce Theater in New York (May 2016)
• Irene Rodriguez Company & Philharmonic Orchestra of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (November 2015)
• Irene Rodriguez Company, the Moore Theater in Seattle (October 2015)

Here are some videos of Evelyn performing at Casino Miami. Thank you Dj Leo Miami for the videos.