Leo Garcia

Leonardo García “Leo García”

Expert Timbal Instructor Specializing in Latin Rhythms

Director | Timbalero | Drummer | Founder of TIMBALIVE

Biography

Leonardo García, artistically known as Leo García, was born on August 20, 1970, in Havana, Cuba. He comes from a deeply musical family and is the son of Roberto García, a distinguished bongo player from the Cuban Orchestra of Modern Music, who worked alongside major figures such as Chucho Valdés and Arturo Sandoval.

Following this artistic heritage, Leo began his musical studies at the Alejandro García Caturla Conservatory at the elementary level and later graduated in 1991 from the prestigious Amadeo Roldán Conservatory.

During his student years, he was part of the group “Estado de Ánimo,” formed by young talents from the ENA and Amadeo Roldán, including artists such as Roberto Carcassés, X Alfonso, and Descemer Bueno. The group performed alongside important ensembles within the Cuban music scene. Leo also participated in the band of renowned Cuban singer Argelia Fragoso.

International Beginnings

In 1992, Leo García joined Afrocuba, an innovative Afro-jazz group that marked the beginning of his international career. With Afrocuba, he performed throughout Latin America and Europe, including iconic venues such as Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London.

International Career

In 1999, Leo settled in Miami, Florida, where he continued his artistic development as a professional drummer and percussionist. He has worked with important groups and artists, including:

• Rockanson Band

• Willy Chirino

• “Los Tres Salseros” project alongside Tito Nieves, Luis Enrique, and Willy Chirino

He has also toured internationally with renowned artists such as Juan Gabriel and has shared the stage with major figures including:

• Arturo Sandoval

• Albita Rodríguez

• Amaury Gutiérrez

• Pancho Céspedes

In addition, he has collaborated with artists such as José Luis Rodríguez “El Puma,” Jaime Camil, Donato Poveda, Tropicana All Stars, and the band Zarabanda.

TIMBALIVE

In 2008, Leo García founded his own musical project, Timbalive, with the goal of bringing Cuban Timba to international stages from Miami.

As the director, timbalero, and drummer of the group, he has led one of the most influential Timba bands outside of Cuba, achieving:

• The production of multiple internationally recognized albums

• Collaborations with major artists in Cuban music

• More than 10 international tours in countries such as France, Italy, Germany, Russia, China, Spain, Mexico, Peru, Canada, and the United States

Timbalive has become a global reference within the genre, earning recognition in international rankings and bringing Cuban music to audiences around the world.

Selected Discography

With Afrocuba

• Rey Arcoiris

• Acontecer

• Eclepticismo

Other Recordings and Projects

• El Peligro Está en la Calle – Eddie Peñalver

• Bohemio Enamorado – Donato Poveda

• Soundtrack: La Cuba Mía

• Tropicana All Stars – Homenaje a Benny Moré

With TIMBALIVE

• From Miami a la Habana

• La Timba Pa’ To’ el Mundo

• Con la Música Cubana No

Featured Tours

• United States tour with Los Van Van under the direction of maestro Juan Formell

• International project “Los Tres Salseros”

• Tours throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia

Artistic Profile

Leo García is recognized for his:

• Exceptional mastery of Afro-Cuban percussion

• Versatility as a timbalero, drummer, and musical director

• Ability to fuse tradition and modernity

• Artistic leadership on international stages

His career represents a path of excellence, innovation, and commitment to the global promotion of Cuban music.