Afro-Cuban Percussion Ensemble

Immersive Afro-Cuban Percussion Experience

To master Afro-Cuban percussion, immerse yourself in our hands-on courses. Learn fundamental techniques on traditional instruments like congas, claves, cowbells, catá, and bongos, each essential to the distinctive Cuban sound.

Afro-Cuba – Course I

Open to all, this course caters primarily to beginners and intermediates. Focused on Cuban folk music and drumming, participants delve into rhythms like Rumba, Güiro, Palo, Abakua, and more. No prior experience is required, making it accessible to all enthusiasts.

Afro-Cuba – Course II

Designed for those with a deeper interest in Cuban folk music, Course II explores advanced rhythms such as Rumba, Güiro, Palo, Abakua, among others. While tailored for experienced percussionists, motivated beginners are also welcome. Singers and vocal enthusiasts with basic singing skills and some understanding of Spanish will find this course enriching.

Afro Cuban Percussion

Teacher

  • Profile foto of Alexander Scull Castillo, percussion teacher at the Global Music Academy, Berlin

    Alexander Scull Castillo

    Percussionist and Music teacher from Havana, Cuba

    Born in Havana, Cuba, Alexander’s musical journey began at a young age. He started with music lessons at the “Casa de Cultura,” where he quickly discovered a passion for rhythmic instruments. Excelling in percussion, he performed in children’s music groups and further developed his skills at the prestigious “Escuela de Instructores de Arte Eduardo García Delgado (EIA).” At EIA, Alexander mastered various percussion instruments and received comprehensive training in piano, guitar, double bass, music theory, and harmony.

    Mentorship and Professional Development

    Under the guidance of renowned musicians such as Federico Arístides Soto Alejo “Tata Güines,” Juan Carlos Rojas Castro “El Peje,” and Tomás Ramos “El Panga,” Alexander honed his expertise. After graduating, he dedicated over eight years to teaching music, focusing on percussion at his alma mater.

    Advanced Studies and Performance Experience

    Alexander’s dedication to his craft led him to the University of Pedagogical Sciences “Enrique José Varona,” where he earned a degree in pedagogy and art with a specialization in music. His repertoire expanded as he learned to play the batá for religious ceremonies, further enriching his musical versatility.

    At the Global Music Academy, Alexander offers ensemble lessons in Afro-Cuban percussion as well as individual lessons in bongo, cajón, conga, Latin drums, and timbales.

    Courses

    • Afro-Cuban Percussion Ensemble

    • Bongo

    • Cajón

    • Conga

    • Timbales

    Languages

    German, Spanish