Cuban composer, pianist, artist director and educator: Dr. Rafael Zaldivar has been recognized by JazzTime and Downbeat jazz magazines for his exceptional contributions to jazz. Zaldivar was born in CamagA 1/4 ey (Cuban). He received a B.A. Montreal University, and a M.A. Plus a D.Mus. McGill University. He has played with jazz legends like Kenny Barron, Barry Harris, and Herbie Hancock. He has also performed with such jazz greats as Terri Lyne Carrington and Greg Osby. The groupleader has been a part of many international jazz festivals including the Jazz Festival in Rochester (New York), the Jazz Festival of Queretaro, Mexico (Mexico), and the Festival Jazz North Sea, Holland. He has been honored with CBC prizes, Opus, Grand Prix Musical Archambault and Opus Canadian Awards. Drawing, his sophomore album, was nominated by the ADISQ and JUNO Awards for “Best Contemporary Jazz Album” with Greg Osby, saxophonist, as special guest. from http://innercirclemusic.com
