Son Cubano Subterraneo

Son Cubano Subterraneo brings the musical warmth, sophistication and rhythmic fire of Cuba’s golden era to life in the nation’s capital. Based in Washington, DC, the six-piece ensemble performs for festivals, museums, performing arts series, clubs, municipal concerts, weddings, corporate events and private celebrations.

At the center of the sound is son cubano—the guitar-and-percussion tradition that helped give rise to modern salsa. Son can be graceful, earthy, romantic or explosive, and the band embraces all of those possibilities. Its arrangements create space for layered rhythm, close vocal harmony, instrumental conversation and the spontaneity that makes live Cuban music so compelling.

The ensemble features Steven Falcon on lead vocals and hand percussion; bandleader Josh Schneck on Cuban tres; Fran Vielma on congas; Eduardo Padua on bongos and hand percussion; Matvei Sigalov on guitar and violin; and Gabriel Vivas on baby bass. Together, the musicians create a sound that is both deeply rooted and immediately accessible.

The repertoire of more than 60 songs draws on music associated with Buena Vista Social Club, Beny Moré, Arsenio Rodríguez, Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Oscar D’León and other legendary artists. Sets also move through bolero, Latin jazz, cumbia, merengue, romantic ballads and unexpected favorites.

Selected appearances include the DC Jazz Festival, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art’s Sounds of Africa concert series, Pearl Street Warehouse, Lubber Run Amphitheater, Clarendon Central Park, Bossa and Takoma Station Tavern. Whether the setting calls for close listening, elegant atmosphere or a full dance floor, Son Cubano Subterraneo brings the music to the room with style, warmth and unmistakable swing.