Rafael Zaldivar

Rafael Zaldivar is a talented Cuban pianist, composer, and educator known for his contributions to jazz. Born in Camagüey, Cuba, Zaldivar comes from a long line of musicians and began playing percussion and piano at a young age. He pursued his studies at the Higher Institute of Arts in Havana and later moved to Canada, where he completed his academic degrees at Université de Montréal and McGill University. Zaldivar has collaborated with many renowned jazz musicians, including Barry Harris, Kenny Barron, Herbie Hancock, Roy Hargrove, and Steve Coleman. His musical career has flourished with performances at international jazz festivals and awards for his compositions.

Zaldivar's work blends his cultural heritage with his expertise in jazz, reflecting his ability to integrate Afro-Cuban rhythms into contemporary jazz. He has also been recognized for his educational contributions, having served as a Visiting Artist at Berklee Music College. His recent activities include workshops on Afro-Cuban rhythmic integration, showcasing his dual role as both a performer and an educator in the jazz world. While I have no information directly linking Rafael Zaldivar to the specific releases you mentioned (*Rumba*, *Rezos*, *Consecration*, *Drawing*, *Life Directions*), he is celebrated for his artistic and educational contributions to jazz.