Portrait of Mauricio Upmann
Congas

Mauricio Upmann

Congas

Mauricio Gutiérrez Upmann

Master Conga Player and Instructor

Professional Percussionist | Master of Latin Music | Educator

Havana, Cuba

Professional Summary

Mauricio Gutiérrez Upmann is a professional percussionist with more than 20 years of experience in Latin music. A graduate of the prestigious Amadeo Roldán National Conservatory of Music in Havana, Cuba, he has established himself as a high-level performer, recognized for his versatility as a conga player, timbalero, drummer, and all-around percussionist.

With a solid career both on stage and in music education, Mauricio is considered an expert in Cuban genres, standing out for his deep knowledge of Afro-Cuban tradition and its application in contemporary musical settings.

Core Expertise

  • Afro-Cuban Percussion: Congas, Timbales, and Drumset

  • Cuban Genres: Timba, Salsa, Son, Mambo, and Chachachá

  • Live Performance and Professional Recording

  • Improvisation and Advanced Accompaniment

  • Music Pedagogy and Technical Training

  • Development of Independence, Technique, and Musicality

Professional Experience

Percussionist | International Performer

  • More than two decades of experience as a professional conga player, timbalero, and drummer

  • Member of the prestigious Cuban orchestra Havana D’Primera for nine years

  • Has worked and shared the stage with internationally recognized artists within Latin music

  • Extensive experience in concerts, tours, and musical productions

Education

Graduate in Music
Amadeo Roldán National Conservatory of Music
Havana, Cuba Rigorous academic training with a focus on performance, music theory, and both classical and popular percussion.

Teaching & Pedagogy

Mauricio Gutiérrez Upmann is distinguished by his strong command of music education and pedagogy, combining technique, musicality, and a practical teaching approach.

  • Instructor with extensive experience training percussionists

  • Development of methods focused on independence, control, and groove

  • Ability to communicate complex musical concepts in a clear and practical way

Current Role

Percussion Instructor

Latin Music Mastery

Mauricio is currently part of the instructor team at Latin Music Mastery, where he shares his professional experience and advanced knowledge with students around the world, contributing to the development of the next generation of Latin musicians.

Artistic Profile

Mauricio is recognized for his:

  • Rhythmic precision and musical sensitivity

  • Complete mastery of Latin percussion

  • Versatility across multiple musical formats

  • Commitment to artistic and educational excellence

His career reflects a combination of tradition, discipline, and musical evolution, positioning him as a strong and respected figure within the Latin music scene.

Courses

Study with Mauricio.

Join the waitlist for early access and founding-member pricing.