Trumpeter Elpidio Chapotín Dies in Havana at Age 70

January 29, 2022

Cuban trumpeter Elpidio Chapotín passed away on Wednesday, January 26 in Havana at the age of 70. Chapotín was the great-nephew of the legendary Cuban trumpeter Félix Chapottín Lage and a master in the performance of the instrument.

Born on the Island, he grew up in the United States. His first encounter with the trumpet occurred at age nine, when his father took him to see a Latin Jazz show in New York with Mario Bauzá and Frank Grillo. In his adolescence he returned to Havana, where he continued studying music until graduating from the National School of Art.

He became first trumpet of valuable Cuban musical groups such as the Orchestra of the Gran Teatro de La Habana, the Teatro Musical orchestra, the Cabaret Tropicana orchestra, and the Orchestra of the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television.

He was a founder of NG La Banda, a group led by José Luis Cortés, and accompanied leading Cuban artists such as Elena Burke, Rosita Fornés, Silvio Rodríguez and Frank Fernández, among others.

Likewise, he was part of the Buena Vista Social Club project and the orchestra of Issac Delgado.

"Sad afternoons, a moment ago we received the sad news that our dear brother, founder of the band, Elpidio Chapotín has passed away. Another great who has departed, another great loss, truly irreparable. This year has begun by taking away from our side great human beings, exceptional musicians, fathers, brothers, friends. Our deepest condolences to the family, we are with you. May you rest in peace, brother," said NG La Banda on Facebook.

"One of the best trumpeters I have been able to know in my 45 years has just passed away. I have no consolation. There are already many important people to me who are leaving this world. I very much hope that it is to become an angel. Elpidio Chapotín, rest in peace. Master of masters, my respects to you eternally," said trumpeter Alexander Abreu.

The director of the Orquesta Aragón, Rafael Lay, noted: "a great has departed, El Chapo left us. Cuban music is again in mourning upon receiving this dire news. May his trumpet sound in heaven eternally!"

"Today is a very sad day for Cuban music and the trumpet, our dear Elpidio Chapotín has left us. An extraordinary musician, excellent trumpeter and great human being. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and admirers of his art. May God receive him in His Holy Glory, rest in peace, brother," said Arturo Sandoval.