Manuel “Guajiro” Mirabal, a renowned Cuban trumpet player and member of the Buena Vista Social Club, passed away in Havana at the age of 91. The Cuban Music Institute described him as one of the greatest trumpet players in Cuba and the world, with his death marking a significant loss for Cuban music and culture. Mirabal’s funeral is set to take place in Havana on Tuesday.
Born in 1933, Mirabal began his musical career in 1951 and played the trumpet for over 70 years. He was a member of prominent orchestras in Cuba before joining the Buena Vista Social Club project in 1996. This project, initiated by Juan de Marcos Gonzalez, Nick Gold, and Ry Cooder, brought together veteran Cuban musicians who had faded into obscurity but were revived by the opportunity to perform again.
Buena Vista Social Club gained worldwide recognition, with their self-titled album winning a Grammy Award in 1998 and becoming the best-selling Cuban album of all time. A documentary about the project, directed by Wim Wenders, was also nominated for an Oscar in 2000.
Mirabal’s contribution to Cuban music, both through his solo career and his involvement in the Buena Vista Social Club, has left a lasting impact on the industry. His legacy as a talented musician and cultural icon will be remembered by generations to come.
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