Chucho Valdés is considered one of the finest pianists in the world and a great composer, with works such as Mambo Influenciado and Misa Negra, a composition that opened the way for current generations of Cuban musicians.

His artistic career and teaching have earned him the Cultura Nacional, Alejo Carpentier and Félix Varela medals in his country and other high distinctions, including Doctor Honoris Causa awards from universities in Canada and Cuba.

His huge talent, his prodigious hands with fingers that easily span an octave and his performances in famous venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Centre and Kennedy Centre in the United States, Ronnie Scott’s in the UK and the Carlos Marx and Amadeo Roldan theatres in Cuba, together with 14 Grammy nominations and five awards, are just some of the elements that have made Chucho Valdés a legend of jazz and music in general.

His music, with its strong Afro-Cuban influence, is a combination of powerful melody and flamboyant delivery counterpoised by masterly technique.

Chucho Valdés was nominated FAO Goodwill Ambassador on 16 October 2006.

"The honour bestowed upon me today gives me the opportunity to participate directly in the fight against hunger in the world". Chucho Valdés, 16 October 2006.