Alfredo Rodriguez is an internationally acclaimed Cuban jazz pianist who, due to his formal training, is as proficient at playing classical music as he is his chosen genre.

Rodriguez was born in Havana in 1985 and named for his father, a popular singer, television host, and entertainer. He began his musical studies on percussion at the age of seven and training on the piano at age 10. He was enrolled in the Manuel Saumell Conservatory, and later at the Amadeo Roldan Music Conservatory. He won classical competitions in both schools.

He also received some on-the-spot training; at the age of 14, he began playing with and arranging for his father's orchestra. At the age of 15, he received Keith Jarrett's classic Köln Concert album as a gift from an uncle, and his ears were opened to improvisation.

In 2011, Rodriguez signed with Detroit's jazz label Mack Avenue Records. His debut album, Sounds of Space -- co-produced by the artist and Jones -- was issued in 2012, winning wide critical acclaim and resulting in more touring opportunities. In the spring of 2014, Rodriguez, his trio, and notable guests issued The Invasion Parade (again co-produced with Jones), a collection of originals based on Cuban folk traditions as well as standards from his homeland.

The association with the legendary producer continued for his next Mack Avenue recording, 2016's Tocororo. Named for the Cuban bird that dies of sadness if caged, for the artist it reflects: "...not only the desire for liberty, but the necessity of it...freedom, travel, and the cross-pollination of Cuban culture...." His guests on the date, Richard Bona, Ibrahim Maalouf and Ibeyi underscored that notion. In 2018, the pianist returned with his fourth studio album, A Little Dream. ~
Thom Ju