Outstanding orchestra conductor, saxophonist, arranger and composer, he was a member of a significant family of musicians. He turned out to be a precursor of jazz in Cuba. He was a member of several groups that achieved great fame. In 1942 he joined the Tropicana Cabaret Orchestra, which he conducted for 25 years. In 1967 he assumed the direction of the Cuban Orchestra of Modern Music. For his outstanding creative work he received several decorations, among them, the Félix Varela Order of the First Degree.

Cuban Orchestra of Modern Music

This orchestra, founded in 1967, was composed of prestigious and talented Cuban artists. Its success was such that it could be said that it marked an important stage in Cuban music in general. The creation of this great band concentrated the best of Cuban musical talent, and some of the most important Cuban musicians of the time were appointed as directors, among them Rafael Somavilla, Federico Smith and the great Armando Romeu. On its music stands were almost all the best Cuban musicians of that time; either as performers or soloists. The Orchestra Cubana de Modern Music made its debut on April 12, 1967 at the Amadeo Roldán Theater.