How does an 80-something-year-old flutist/composer living in Havana start an orchestra in L.A. devoted to playing his music?





The story starts when Fay Roberts traveled to Cuba to study flute with the legendary Richard Egues, of Orquesta Aragon fame. Richard, an innovative virtuoso of the Cuban flute style is also the composer of Cuba's most popular cha cha cha's, El Bodeguero. Richard sent Fay home with enough music and inspiration to start a new Cuban Charanga Orquestra. Though consistent correspondence Richard guided the creation on L.A/s most authentic Cuban dance group Orchesta Charangoa.

Since '97 Charangoa has performed in L.A/s top venues, including the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the Palladium, the Palace & the Conga Room. Charangoa has opened for Cuba's most famous band, "Los Van Van" and has backed up Israelt Lopez Cachao. Television appearances include KCET's "Holiday Celebration", and KTTV's "Good Day L.A.". Charangoa has also performed in many festivals, including the Watts Towers Jazz Festival, L.A. Cuban Festival, African Marketplace, & the L.A. Salsa Festival.