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Luis Domingo Diaz

From Afro-Caribbean to Latin Jazz

About Me

Over 30 years experience in the world of Afro-Caribbean Music. Percussionist, Clinician, Instructor and Band Leader. Latin Percussion instructor and clinician for “The Wisconsin Conservatory of Music” from 1999 to 2006. Endorser for Evans Drumheads, Sabian Cymbals and Rhythm Tech Instruments. Founder and Leader of the original Veneno, Borinbomba and The Luis Diaz Quintet. Luis has worked with Brian Lynch, David Hazeltine, Melvin Rhyne, Peter Bernstien, Berkly Fudge, Eddie Butts, John Benitez, Rick Germanson, Ko-Thi Dance Co, Master Percussionist Dumah Saafir, Rumba Master Carlos “Quinto” Eguis - Aguila, Jazz Legend Buddy Montgomery and the great Cuban Vocalist / Percussionist Virgilio Marti. Luis and his Quintet have worked with “The Jazz Experience” an organization that brings Jazz to Milwaukee area public schools. He has conducted clinics and workshops for “The Wisconsin Conservatory of Music” with Dave Mancini and also with David “La Mole” Ortiz. For Milwaukee Public School Students with Ron Model musical director of the University of Northern Illinois Jazz orquestra and for Brookfield High School with Brian Lynch. Other clinics include The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, The University of Wisconsin La Crosse, Alverno College, Cardinal Stritch University, Cascio Music, Milwaukee Tech College and The Percussion Gallery in Ponce, Puerto Rico. Luis is currently playing with “Madisalsa” a 15 piece powerhouse from Madison, WI, WI. He is also performing with the groups of Jeno Somlai, Eric Jacobson and the new exciting group “Rumbrava” lead by Connie Grauer from the legendary group Mrs. Fun.

My Jazz Story

I love jazz because of the controlled freedom it allows me. I was first exposed to jazz by local radio personality Ron Cuzner. I met Dumah Saafir at a local jam, he later introduced me to Buddy Montgomery The best show I ever attended was The Buddy Montgomery Band. The first jazz record I bought was Cal T'jader Latin Concert My advice to new listeners is let the music guide and teach you. The more you open your ears the more you grow.