Hammadi Valdes is a dynamic percussionist, musical director, and educator who has worked closely with legendary dancer Carlos Acosta for over two decades. He contributed to landmark recordings including Irakere 30 Años and Chucho Valdés’ Latin Grammy–winning New Conceptions. Hammadi served as musical director for Acosta’s Tocororo: A Cuban Tale, which broke box office records at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, earned an Olivier Award nomination, and toured internationally. He is currently co-leader of Ariwo, a Cuban-Iranian quartet exploring the intersection of electronic and Afro-Cuban music.
