Electronic Press Kit · 2026
Havana
Quartet
A Cuban string quartet rooted in Havana, performing at the intersection of classical tradition and contemporary expression.
Founded in 2017, the Havana Quartet has established itself as a leading ensemble in both classical and contemporary music, proudly representing the richness and diversity of Cuban culture. All four members are graduates of the University of the Arts in Havana, and have each performed with renowned Cuban orchestras including the Havana Chamber Orchestra, the Havana Lyceum Orchestra, and Música Eterna.
Since their debut at the 30th anniversary of the Havana Contemporary Music Festival, the quartet has captivated audiences at prestigious events including La Ruta de Mozart, the Havana Classical Music Festival, the Mozart-Habana Festival, and the Habaneras Festival celebrating Havana's 500th anniversary.
In 2023 they began a new chapter in the United States, performing at the Harvard Fivesparks Music Festival and the Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music. Relocating to Minneapolis–Saint Paul, they quickly became integral to Minnesota's cultural scene — serving as quartet-in-residence at CAYO since 2024, returning to Apple Hill in 2025 as a fellowship ensemble, and being named Project Amplify Artists-in-Residence at MacPhail Center for Music.
In 2025 they were collectively awarded the Spotlight Fellowship for SphinxConnect 2026: Discover — the largest convening dedicated to excellence and inclusion in classical music.
For their performance of Jorge Amado Molina's Ofrenda — the highest accolade in the Cuban music industry.
Available nationwide & internationally
Hansel Pérez Carrero
Violin · Director
Ana Caridad Frómeta
Violin
Amaya Fuentes Sarría
Viola
Denise Hernández Rabeiro
Cello
"What an amazing Workshop this past Tuesday with the Havana Quartet! It was fun to feel the rhythms all together! It was a fun and wonderful experience for our students and families!"
— Augsburg Suzuki Talent Education, Minneapolis
"Our 3rd and 4th grade students were thrilled to welcome the Havana Quartet for a special performance! Originally from Havana, Cuba and now based in the Twin Cities, these talented musicians shared an engaging program featuring a wide variety of music. Students didn't just listen — they clapped along with la clave cubana and got moving too, learning how to dance the Cha Cha!"
— Baxter Elementary School, Brainerd, MN
"Some people we meet really stick. Meeting the Havana Quartet was one of these moments. Great players, genuine people and a drive that's just positive."
— Boveda Music
"The Havana Quartet are professionals of the highest caliber: always punctual, prepared, and positive. Their concerts connect with music lovers of all ages and backgrounds."
— Cecilia Johnson, Booking Manager, Berlin Jazz Club
Photos
All hi-res assets available upon request at info@cayomusic.org
Search "Havana Quartet" on YouTube for live recordings, festival appearances, and collaborations.
Full schedule at cayomusic.org/events
Notable Performances
- Orchestra Hall — Minneapolis, Atrium series
- Cedar Cultural Center — with Alejandro Brittes
- The Dakota Jazz Club — with Charanga Tropical
- Capri Theater — Minneapolis
- Harvard Fivesparks Music Festival — 2023
- Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music — 2023, 2025
- Havana Contemporary Music Festival — 30th anniversary debut
- Mozart-Habana Festival · Habaneras Festival
- Minnesota Tango Music Festival — 2025
- SphinxConnect 2026 — Spotlight Fellowship
Collaborations
- Jasper String Quartet
- Yazmin & Beat Zero
- Charanga Tropical
- La Reyna y La Real
- Mama Digdown's Brass Band
- Alejandro Brittes
Repertoire
- Cuban concert music — Molina, Diez Nieto, Falcón
- Classical — Shostakovich, Mozart, Beethoven
- Latin & tango — Piazzolla
- Film scores & contemporary arrangements
CAYO
Quartet-in-Residence. CAYO fosters cultural connection through music. The statewide tour is supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board.
2024 – Present · cayomusic.org
MacPhail Center for Music
Project Amplify Artists-in-Residence at one of Minnesota's most influential music education institutions.
2025 · macphail.edu
Apple Hill Center for Chamber Music
Fellowship ensemble in 2025. Masterclasses with Jesse MacDonald and Saúl Bitran. Performed in 2023 with Tony Ross, Judith Eissenberg, and Susie Park.
2023, 2025 · applehill.org
SphinxConnect 2026
Collectively awarded the Spotlight Fellowship for SphinxConnect 2026: Discover — the largest convening for excellence and inclusion in classical music.
2026 · sphinxmusic.org
Deeply committed to music education, the quartet shares its expertise through schools, workshops, and community programs — inspiring the next generation of musicians and building cultural bridges across diverse audiences.
School Presentations
K–12 educational programs introducing students to classical and Cuban music traditions. Available for school residencies throughout the US.
Masterclasses
In-depth sessions for advanced students and young professionals. Lead masterclasses through CAYO's Student Ambassador Program and beyond.
Community Engagement
Performances and workshops for diverse community audiences, making classical music accessible across backgrounds and age groups.
