This Monday, the master, composer, arranger and notable Cuban violinist Enrique Álvarez passed away in Havana, the creator and leader since 1992 of his Orquesta Charanga Latina, as announced by the Cuban Institute of Music (ICM).

Born in Camagüey on 10 September 1952, he completed his studies at the National School of Art with the French professor Marivonne Drobahce, graduating in Viola.

His prestigious artistic career includes performances as first violin of the National Symphony Orchestra, the Camagüey Symphony Orchestra, collaborations with the orchestras of Elio Revé and Richard Egües; as well as in the Charanga of Guillermo Rubalcaba and the Maravilla de Florida and América orchestras.

In addition to being part of a family of great and prestigious musicians—son of Nené Álvarez (1926-2017) and brother of Adalberto Álvarez (1948-2021)—Enrique was a consummate professional who has left his mark both on his children and on new generations of Cuban violinists.

The ICM also highlights that, since the creation of his own orchestra, the Charanga Latina, he not only lent prestige to his instrument within Cuban popular music, but also occupied the top places of popular acceptance with songs that made, and continue to make, several generations of Cubans dance.

National and international awards and tours, an extensive discography, popularity, recognition from Cuban musicians and those from other latitudes, to which is added the admiration and respect of his people, endorse the meritorious artistic and professional career of this creator with a profound sense of cubanía; furthermore, a defender and faithful exponent of music made in the largest of the Antilles.

His passionate dedication to the art of sounds earned Enrique Álvarez a deserving place within Cuban musical history and culture; in addition to belonging to the excellence catalogue of the Artex Clave Cubana Artistic Representations Agency, and having been a member of the Union of Cuban Writers and Artists.

Likewise, the communiqué extends heartfelt condolences to family, friends, colleagues and followers; and explains that, by family decision, his funeral honours will be held in a private ceremony.