Grammy-winning percussionist Pedrito Martinez returns for a third appearance at Spoleto, where he’s thrilled audiences with his electrifying rhythms, powerful vocals, and infectious energy. The greatest living Afro-Cuban percussionist—he’s played with the likes of Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen and Wynton Marsalis—Martinez transforms every performance into a celebration of dance, heritage, and improvisation. His ensemble turns rhythm into pure joy, making it impossible to sit still. A Festival favorite, this is an evening of unforgettable music, irresistible grooves, and sheer celebration—one of Spoleto’s most thrilling acts.

Pedrito Martinez, percussion and lead vocals
Manny Marquez, percussion and background vocals
Ahmed Alom, keyboard and background vocals
Sebastian Natal, electric Bass and background vocals
Xito Lovell, trombone and background vocals

About Pedrito Martinez
Pedrito Martinez is an internationally acclaimed percussionist, singer, and bandleader widely recognized as one of the leading ambassadors of Afro-Cuban music. Raised in Havana’s Cayo Hueso neighborhood, where rumba is a way of life, he developed a deep foundation in Afro-Cuban traditions and their African origins. The New York Times has hailed him as “a source of rhythmic delight…as close as traditional Afro-Cuban music has to a superstar.”

Since settling in New York City, Martinez has recorded and performed with an extraordinary range of artists, including Paul Simon, Wynton Marsalis, Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Rubén Blades, Eric Clapton, and Camila Cabello, contributing to more than 75 albums. A founding member of the influential Afro-Cuban/Afrobeat band Yerba Buena, he launched The Pedrito Martinez Group in 2005, earning Grammy and Latin Grammy nominations. Frequently named Jazz Percussionist of the Year in critics’ polls, Martinez continues to tour worldwide, celebrated for his virtuosity, rhythmic power, and charismatic stage presence.

Attendance at all events is subject to the Festival security policy.