Chucho Valdés Celebrates His 85th Birthday with Special Concerts and New Musical Projects

In 2026, Chucho Valdés celebrates 85 years of life and a 70-year career that has transformed the history of jazz and Afro-Cuban music. An internationally renowned pianist, composer, and arranger, he continues to expand the boundaries of his musical language, reaffirming a career defined by innovation, excellence, and a deep connection to his roots.

To mark his 85th birthday, Chucho Valdés will present a series of special concerts featuring a repertoire that brings together his original compositions alongside great jazz standards. These performances will also feature the participation of prominent collaborators and special guests.

The schedule will be complemented by his Solo Piano performances—an intimate experience where he reveals the full richness and freedom of his pianistic language—as well as concerts alongside his acclaimed Royal Quartet, an ensemble with which he continues to explore new dimensions of contemporary Afro-Cuban jazz.

As part of this new artistic chapter, Chucho Valdés is also preparing the release of UNCUT, a new solo piano album that offers a direct and intimate look into his musical universe.

This year reflects the enduring relevance of Chucho Valdés: a concert agenda, new projects, and a repertoire that confirm his work continues to enrich the history of jazz and expand its global impact.