Lucho Bermúdez

The first to transcribe the traditional rhythms of Colombia for orchestra, Lucho Bermudez (born: Luis Eduardo Bermudez Acosta) had a profound effect on the music of Latin America. His group, Orquesta de Lucho Bermudez, formed in 1946, remains one of the most celebrated dance bands in Colombia, continuing to perform at Club San Fernando, the Granada Hotel in Bagota, and the Rustic Club in Medellin. Bermudez's musical talents were obvious from earliest childhood. Taught basic music theory, at the age of seven, by his uncle, Jose Maria Montes, he mastered flute, clarinet, trombone, and trumpet within three years. Accepting a position as arranger and director of Banda Papayera at the age of 15, he formed his first orchestra, Orchestra of the Caribbean, by his 22nd birthday. After recording in Buenas Aires in 1946, Bermudez returned to Colombia and formed Orquesta De Lucho Bermudez. ~ Craig Harris