I CURATE!
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Curations by:
The Matrix via ↴
Who I Am & Where I Live
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Name:
Francisco Mela
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City:
New York City
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Country:
United States
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Hometown:
Bayamo, Cuba
My Life & Work
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Bio:
Born in Bayamo, Cuba, Francisco Mela first came to the United States in early 2000 to study at Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA).
He quickly made a name for himself by playing at various venues in and around the city and, before long, became a member of the Berklee faculty.
Several years later, in 2005, he joined Joe Lovano’s quartet and has been an integral member of the group for over a decade, including Lovano’s newest ensemble, a two-drummer quintet called “Us Five.”
In 2009, Mela was tapped by legendary jazz pianist McCoy Tyner to join his trio. Like many, Tyner has cited Mela’s charisma, sophistication, and life-affirming spirit as some of the drummer’s many favorable attributes.
Mela has released four albums as a leader, all of which have received critical acclaim from numerous critics and publications. His recordings include Melao (2006), Cirio (Half Note 2008), which was recorded from a week-long residency at New York’s Blue Note, Tree of Life (Half Note 2011), and FE (2016).
His latest album MPT Trio Volume 1, was released 1/15/2021 on 577 Records. He is endorsed by Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, and Canopus Drums.
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