Frank La Rosa

Expert Congas instructor specializing in Latin rhythms

Frank La Rosa

Professional Musician | Master Percussionist | Arranger & Producer

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Classically trained master percussionist with over 35 years of international experience. Specialist in Drums, Latin, and African Percussion. Proven track record as a faculty member at prestigious universities and as a session/touring musician for world-renowned artists. Expert in musical arrangement and production, with deep mastery of Afro-Cuban rhythms and contemporary ensembles.

ACADEMIC & TEACHING EXPERIENCE

Percussion & Drum Instructor

• University of New Mexico (UNM): Guest Professor of Afro-Cuban Percussion.

• University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP): Specialized clinics and workshops.

• Tec de Monterrey / UACJ (Ciudad Juárez): Development of curriculum for rhythmic percussion and ensemble techniques.

• Private Instruction: Advanced coaching in Drums and Latin Percussion.

ARTISTIC CAREER & INTERNATIONAL TOURS

Performance & Session Musician

Major Collaborations:
Performed and/or recorded with legendary international artists, including:
Celia Cruz, Tito Puente Jr., Paquita la del Barrio, Marco Antonio Muñiz, DLG, Sonora Santanera.

Global Stages:
International tours across the United States, Mexico, Panama, Spain, Italy, France, Malta, Tunisia, and Alaska.

Featured Festivals:
Active participant in high-profile events such as the Calle 8 Festival in Miami.

Early Career (Havana, Cuba):
Tenured musician within the four major music corporations of Havana, performing with iconic groups:
T con E (Lázaro Valdés), Roberto Faz, El Muso y su Orquesta, Cuestión Seria, among others.

EDUCATION

• Graduate in Percussion | Amadeo Roldán Conservatory (Havana, Cuba).

• Elementary Music Studies | Alejandro García Caturla Conservatory (Havana, Cuba).

CORE COMPETENCIES

Instruments:
Drum Set, Congas, Timbales, Bongos, Batá Drums, and Minor Percussion.

Specialties:
Afro-Cuban Rhythms, Latin Jazz, Popular Cuban Music, and Fusion.

Technical Skills:
Music Arrangement, Composition, and Musical Direction.

Languages:
Spanish (Native), English.

CURRENT PROJECTS

• Active performer in the binational (El Paso / Ciudad Juárez) music scene with various Jazz and Latin ensembles.

• Music production and arrangement for independent artists and studio sessions.