René Álvarez
Composer · Arranger · Trombonist · Pianist · Vocalist
From lead trombonist of Sur Caribe to stages at Glastonbury and beyond — René leads Cuban Combination and Havana Latin Fun, carrying son and salsa to audiences worldwide.
Rene Álvarez Portuondo
Born in Santiago de Cuba, René graduated as a trombonist from the Conservatorio Esteban Salas. At 17 he took part in six international choral festivals alongside choirs of the rank of the Swedish National Choir, the National Choir of San Francisco, and chamber choirs of Canada and Denmark.
He has recorded eight albums across his career — four with Sur Caribe and four more for labels including Fonovisa (Mexico), Warner and Sony Music US — and has shared festival stages with artists such as George Clinton, Sinéad O'Connor and Franz Ferdinand.
René also served as musical director of the Cuban band featured in the James Bond film No Time to Die, recording the music at Abbey Road Studios and appearing on screen as part of the film's scenes.
Two decades on stage.
Lead Trombonist, Sur Caribe
One of Cuba's most celebrated groups of the decade — several national hits and a Best Selling CD win at the CubaDisco music fair (2006).
Glastonbury & Electric Picnic
Played the Glastonbury Festival two years running and Ireland's Electric Picnic, sharing stages with George Clinton, Sinéad O'Connor and Franz Ferdinand.
No Time to Die — James Bond
Musical director of the Cuban band featured in the film, recording at Abbey Road Studios and appearing in the film's scenes.
Cuban Combination
Brecon Jazz Festival, Salsa Congress Bournemouth & London, Imperial Jazz Festival London, The National Theatre, Carnival de Cuba, and Latinossegor in France.
Havana Latin Fun
A new generation of Cuban musicians continuing the Buena Vista legacy — authentic son and salsa with a contemporary edge.
Three bands, one musical throughline.
René's career runs across a legacy group, an internationally touring band, and a new generation project — each carrying Cuban son and salsa to a different kind of stage.
Sur Caribe
René's years as lead trombonist — national hits, major-label albums, and a Best Selling CD win at CubaDisco 2006.
Cuban Combination
René's international touring band — Brecon Jazz, Salsa Congress London & Bournemouth, Imperial Jazz Festival, and beyond.
Havana Latin Fun
A new generation of Cuban musicians continuing the Buena Vista legacy — authentic son and salsa for private and corporate events.
On stage, in color.
Bring Havana to your event.
Tell us the date, the room and the vibe you're going for — René will follow up with availability and a quote.