Orquesta Aragon

Formed in pre-war Cuba, Orquesta Aragon is one of the leading 'charanga' ensembles in the country. Charanga is the name given to traditional Cuban dance bands playing the unique amalgamation of European classical music and African rhythms which defines the traditional Cuban danzón genre. In the 1950s Orquesta Aragon widened their horizons from the traditional Cuban danzón format and began to embrace the newly popular cha-cha-cha and pachanga fusions. The band were highly influential during this period and their popularity inspired musicians outside their native Cuba. They are also credited with inspiring the New York mambo genre.

The band's distinctive sound was achieved by adding three violins which, combined with an African rhythm section overlaid with Spanish influenced melodies created a new style of music which had instant appeal to lovers of traditional Cuban music. In the 1960s they recruited Alejandro Tómas Valdés to add an element of traditional dance to their act. Valdés would use his dancing talents to visually enhance the band's stage presence during performances. They continue to lead the way in Cuban music, inspiring up-and-coming artists in the genre.