Arturo Sandoval
PROJECTS:
A living legend and one of the most celebrated musicians of our time, Arturo Sandoval is universally recognized as a master of the trumpet and one of the most dynamic performers alive.
A protégé of Dizzy Gillespie and founding member of the groundbreaking Cuban supergroup Irakere, Sandoval helped redefine modern music through a revolutionary fusion of jazz, classical, and Afro-Cuban traditions. Since launching his own ensembles in 1981, he has remained a singular artistic force, captivating audiences across the globe with performances that combine breathtaking virtuosity, emotional depth, and infectious joy.
His astonishing command of the trumpet - marked by extraordinary range, power, agility, and precision - is matched by a rare ability to move seamlessly between musical worlds. Whether performing jazz, classical repertoire, or Latin music, Sandoval’s voice is unmistakable: fearless, soulful, and electrifying.
The accolades are extraordinary. Sandoval is the recipient of ten Grammy Awards, and an Emmy Award for composing the acclaimed underscore to HBO’s For Love or Country starring Andy Garcia. His many honors also include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, 2024 Kennedy Center Honoree, the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and most recently, Spain’s Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic, one of the nation’s highest civilian distinctions.
Beyond performance, Sandoval is an acclaimed composer, arranger, pianist, percussionist, and educator whose collaborators span an extraordinary constellation of icons including Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, Celia Cruz, Plácido Domingo, Tony Bennett, John Williams, Alicia Keys, Ariana Grande, Pharrell Williams, and countless others.
His remarkable journey, from political oppression in Cuba to international acclaim, adds profound depth to a career defined by resilience, brilliance, and artistic freedom.
An Arturo Sandoval performance is far more than a concert: it is an unforgettable event. Whether appearing with his acclaimed ensemble, as a special guest, or in symphonic collaboration, Arturo Sandoval delivers a thrilling, world-class experience that leaves audiences inspired, energized, and wanting more.
SYMPHONY
Equally revered in jazz and classical music, Arturo Sandoval is among the rare artists who brings true virtuosity, crossover appeal, and star power to the symphonic stage. A celebrated composer and soloist, he has composed two trumpet concertos for trumpet and orchestra, which he performs regularly with leading orchestras around the world.
Sandoval has appeared with major symphonies across the globe and recorded John Williams’ Trumpet Concerto with the London Symphony Orchestra, further solidifying his stature as one of the premier trumpet artists of his generation. His symphonic performances combine dazzling musicianship, charismatic storytelling, and broad audience appeal, creating a concert experience of uncommon brilliance, cultural richness, and lasting impact.
PRESS QUOTES:
“Arguably the most prodigious trumpeter of his generation, a showman to the tips of his toes...imperiously and dashingly in charge of the resources of his trumpet”
The Guardian
“Mr. Sandoval’s playing is unabashedly spectacular, yet he uses his technique with dramatic finesse.”
The New York Times
“A blazing, technically flawless trumpeter, Arturo Sandoval has been dazzling audiences all over the world with his supercharged tone and bop-flavored flurries...a fiery high-note player, Sandoval is a superbly well-balanced performer, and just as capable of tackling classical repertoire as jazz and traditional Cuban music..”
All Music
“Anyone who has seen a no-hit game in baseball will tell you that it’s a rare and highly exciting occurrence. ...Arturo Sandoval and his team of music stars deliver even better—a perfect game of a recording”
All About Jazz
“Born into poverty in Cuba and held back by his government, he risked everything to share his gifts with the world. In the decades since, this astonishing trumpeter, pianist and composer has inspired audiences in every corner of the world and awakened a new generation of great performers. He remains one of the best ever to play”
President Barack Obama
“He’s one of the best! He’s got bull chops”
Dizzy Gillespie
“Arturo Sandoval exudes the true joy of music in everything he does...long may he reign!”
John Williams
