graphics

Composer

Contemporary songbook:

Life Incantations books I through IV
A registered copyright, collection of works which include over 60 compositions.

A Blank Stare is Better than an Empty Chair
Composer in a collaboration with lyricst Marcia Klatt that yielded music and lyrics for a theatrical production that ran in Chicago for three months early in 2007.

Opus Nocturne                                                                                                                             An orchestral work written for dance. Currently under consideration by selected dance troupes.    

Creator

CUBAN ESSENCE  

A Cuban American timba orchestra, with an exciting and truly new sound. Playing an original contemporary body of work brought to life with authentic Afro-Cuban rhythms and concepts. The songs of love, life and dreams are made accessible to all through lyrics in English. The orchestra made its debut in the summer of 2007 at the Chicago Board of Trade concert series to high acclaim and was featured at Nacional 27 with rave reviews. www.cubanessence.com  

 Director  

WALDO & FRIENDS ORCHESTRA 
 An umbrella name for different ensembles available for any particular event.
  • Jazz Trio
  • Latin Quartet, Quintet and beyond
  • Swing Orchestra
  • Authentic Salsa Band
  • Full-blown Contemporary Dance Band

Waldo and Friends was founded in 1987 and has performed at:

  • The Art Institute of Chicago
  • United Center - USA Productions
  • Union League Club of Chicago
  • Chicago Stock Exchange 
  • The Chicago Board of Trade (Ceres Café)
  • Buckingham Athletic Club
  • Bear Brokerage Firm
  • Navy Pier

 Performer

I have served various tenures as musical director, and drummer for landmark institutions such as:

  • The Pump Room, Byfields and Odyssey Cruise lines
  • 5th street band (national tour)
  • Barbara Eden
  • Pudgy
  • Judy Tenuda

My orchestral experience includes work with:

  • Chicago Festival of the Arts Orchestra
  • Chicago Symphonic Wind Ensemble, where I performed with Marian Anderson, Aaron Rosand, Bill and Mona Schoen, Victor Borge.

Educator

Recently completed a successful residency, teaching an Afro-Cuban music program at Ravinia Festival.