Los Muñequitos de Matanzas

Considered the "ambassadors of rumba," Cuban folk group Los Muñequitos de Matanzas was formed in 1952 by a group of young musicians in the port city of Matanzas and was originally named Grupo Guaguancó Matancero. The band's first instruments were dishes, boxes and bottles, and over time it evolved into one of Cuba's most respected folklore ensembles. Founding members included Florencio Calle and also percussionist Gregorio Diaz, who remained in the group until his passing. The band's first recording in 1953 included the well-received song "Los Muñequitos en la Calle," which referred to the comics of the day and later inspired the group to change its name.

The group is primarily known for its exquisite and authentic interpretation of rumba and its three variants (yambú, guaguancó and Columbia), and includes a repertoire spanning numerous Afro-Cuban folkloric genres, including the abakuá music and dance of the Calabar tribe of Nigeria to Yoruban religious music of the santería tradition. Under the direction of Diosdado Ramos, the group includes three generations of musicians and dancers with an array of instruments including tumbadoras and batá drums.

Los Muñequitos have toured internationally and recorded a number of seminal albums, earning a Grammy nomination in 2001 for best folkloric album, and maintaining their links with the traditional past while exploring contemporary aspects. Some of the group's dancers have even incorporated the influences of hip-hop and breakdance moves into rumba.

The band's first tour in the United States in 1992 (on its 40th anniversary) brought it to both coasts, delighting "Cubaphiles" who had long-awaited the group's arrival. Los Muñequitos continue their important cultural work today through performances and workshops around the globe. —Rebeca Mauleon