BIOGRAPHY

Leonardo Reyna's distinct musical persona revolves around his exceptional versatility, which sets him apart as a standout figure among classical pianists. As a contemporary pianist, composer, and producer, Leonardo embodies a dynamic fusion of traditional classical training and innovative exploration.

Rooted in his Caribbean heritage and solid education in the classical European school of music, Leonardo's playing exudes interpretative passion and technical excellence. He is hailed as one of the most esteemed contemporary pianists from Cuba, garnering international acclaim and numerous awards, including the prestigious Claudio Arrau International Piano Competition's 2nd Prize, and 1st Prizes in the UNEAC, Ignacio Cervantes, and Amadeo Roldan competitions.

Born in Cuba, Leonardo Reyna's deep connection with music led him on an extraordinary journey from a young age. At just 10 years old, he left his homecountry after winning a competition in Santiago de Chile. As a protege of the renowned pianist Roberto Bravo and his Foundation, Leonardo continued to nurture his talent through masterclasses and competitions across Latin America, including Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Mexico. He made his first appearances as as a soloist with the National Symphony Orchestra of Chile, National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba, Matanzas Symphony Orchestra en La Orquesta Sinfónica de la Universidad de Concepción.

His dedication and passion for music have shaped his remarkable musical path, captivating audiences and juries worldwide. Returning to his roots in Cuba, Leonardo sought guidance from esteemed teachers Teresita Junco and Rosario Franco at the University of Art (ISA) and the National Conservatory "Amadeo Roldan" in Havana. Their mentorship nurtured his innate abilities and instilled in him a profound appreciation for the classical European school of music.

Aged 22, Leonardo moved to Europe having secured a scholarship to the renowned Escuela Superior de Música "Reina Sofía" in Madrid, where he studied under the tutelage of the eminent Dmitri Bashkirov. He further polished his skills as a soloist, culminating in the completion of his Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the renowned Hochschule für Musik "Hanns Eisler" in Berlin, where he also specialized in Lied-Accompaniment with revered artists like Prof. Wolfram Rieger and bass-baritone Thomas Quastoff. Spending 12 transformative years in Germany, he finally found a home in the vibrant city of Amsterdam.

Leonardo's passion for blending cross-cultural influences and genres allows him to craft an authentic and heartfelt performance that resonates with listeners on a personal level. He remains authentic to his artistic vision, showcasing a multidimensional talent that goes beyond traditional piano performances. His dedication to artistic growth and collaboration makes him an inspiring and promising talent in the world of classical music. 

Leonardo's versatility knows no bounds, as he effortlessly navigates a diverse repertoire as a soloist, chamber music performer, and song-accompanist.

Yet, Leonardo is not confined to the classical realm alone. As an unconventional classical pianist, he boldly explores artistic territories beyond the traditional norms and searches for collaboration with interdisciplinary artists. Through his label, Classic Vibrations, he embraces cross-cultural dialogues, using music as a universal language to connect people from different backgrounds. He is a composer and producer of his own music, fearlessly blending influences from different cultures and life experiences. Leonardo's compositions embody a remarkable fusion of genres, seamlessly blending elements from jazz, world music, and even electronics, all intertwined with the vibrant Afro-Cuban musical heritage deeply rooted in his own cultural background. This unique and innovative approach creates a captivating and resonant sound that not only appeals to modern sensibilities but also maintains a profound connection to classical traditions at its core. 

In 2022 and 2023, Leonardo released four EPs titled “Rumbeando”, “A Elegua”, “Siboney”, and “Homenaje”. Earlier, in 2020, his compositions also took center stage in the documentary "El Gran Impaciente," receiving accolades and winning the Best Documentary Award at the Five Continentes International Film Festival

In 2023, Leonardo takes his artistic journey to the Broadway stage, as exceptional talents earned him a place in the cast of the musical "Buena Vista Social Club™, a Broadway-Production directed by Tony Award nominee Saheem Ali.

His performances have graced renowned concert halls, including the prestigious Konzerthaus Berlin, Mendelssohn Haus Leipzig, Teatro Marti Habana, Teatro Municipal de Chile, Auditorium Amadeo Roldan Cuba, Philharmonie Duisburg and the Steinway House Berlin, and he has been invited to share his artistry at numerous national and international music festivals, such as the International Festival of Young Pianists in Havana, Aurora Festival in Stockholm, and the Operadagen Rotterdam. Going beyond the traditional confines of concert halls, Leonardo's music has reached audiences in hospitals, prisons, underground copper mines, and remote mountain communities, thanks to his association with the "Roberto Bravo" Foundation.

Despite his explorations, Leonardo remains deeply committed to preserving and celebrating the richness of classical tradition. His highly anticipated debut classical album, set to be released in the autumn of 2023, will showcase his virtuosity and artistic vision, featuring important works by composers such as Robert Schumann and Frederik Chopin, alongside those of their Cuban contemporary, the illustrious Ignacio Cervantes, and works by the 20th-century Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona, reflecting Leonardo’s commitment to celebrating the richness of his Cuban heritage.

Leonardo Reyna's musical odyssey unites cultures, enriching the world with heartfelt melodies and inspiring audiences with the enduring power of classical music. His impact on the world of music and beyond promises to be timeless and transformative.