Manuel Valera's Cuban Express Tickets

Manuel Valera is a renowned Cuban-born pianist, composer, and bandleader whose work blends Afro-Cuban rhythms with contemporary jazz. Recognized for his lyrical touch, intricate arrangements, and prolific output, Valera leads Manuel Valera’s Cuban Express and the Manuel Valera Quintet, releasing projects on respected labels and earning critical acclaim in the jazz world.

Valera’s career highlights include a Grammy nomination for New Cuban Express in the Best Latin Jazz Album category at the 55th Grammy Awards (2013). He received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2019 for musical composition, underscoring his impact as a composer and bandleader. Through Chamber Music America New Jazz Works commissions in 2005, 2014, and 2017, Valera has demonstrated his ability to craft immersive, location-informed jazz narratives.

Explore his discography, learn about ongoing projects, and secure your seats for upcoming performances. We’ve got you covered with reliable, easy access to tickets and artist information.

Biography highlights: Born in Cuba, Manuel Valera studied classical composition and jazz piano before merging Cuban roots with contemporary jazz. As a pianist and composer, he has collaborated with top-tier musicians and led ambitious projects like the New Cuban Express Big Band. His music features lush harmonic landscapes, compelling improvisation, and storytelling through rhythm.

Discography highlights: Notable releases include Jose Martí en Nueva York (Greenleaf Music, 2020) a song cycle inspired by Martí’s poetry; Distancia (2022, Greenleaf Music) with the New Cuban Express Big Band; Vessel (2023, Criss Cross Jazz) with the Manuel Valera Quintet; Rise Again Vol. 1 (2024) and Rise Again Vol. 2 (2025) on Mavo Records, with Rise Again Vol. 2 released on May 23, 2025. The projects demonstrate a trajectory from intimate trio works to expansive big-band explorations.

Upcoming tour info: The 2025 touring schedule highlights New Cuban Express Big Band performances and NYC-area dates, including Birdland in New York City and Terraza 7 gigs in Queens, along with additional New York City appearances. For fans, this is a rare chance to hear Valera’s lush arrangements in live settings across the city.