Bongo

Explore Diverse Cuban Music Genres

Our lessons are designed for all music levels and are available as individual or group sessions. While focusing on bongos, you’ll also explore other Cuban instruments such as maracas, güiro, clave, cencerro, and chequere, along with their rhythmic patterns.

Together, we will delve into various genres of Cuban music, including Rumba (Guaguanco, Yambú, Columbia), Palo, Bolero, Danzon, Cha Cha Cha, Pilon, Mosambique, Mambo, and Son. In addition to rhythm and playing techniques, you’ll learn about music history and prominent musicians associated with these instruments. With a joyful approach, we’ll gradually develop our own repertoire and ideas.

Photo of set of bongos

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