Profile: Candido Camero

Candido Camero, a member of South Florida Musicians Association since 1960, has been named a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master and will receive the award in New York City in October.

The Cuban-American percussionist pioneered the use of more than one conga drum, using up to three congas and bongos to play melodies in addition to providing rhythmic and harmonic accompaniment. Candido has performed on the Jackie Gleason Show, The Ed Sullivan Show, and on many specials, and has played with Dizzy Gillespie, Count Basie, Celia Cruz, Tony Bennett, Tito Puente, Lionel Hampton, Duke Ellington, and many other greats. He was also a member of the Billy Taylor Quartet. 

Replies

Bravo, Candido. Usted es un barbaro! You're an inspiration. Your music has been enriching our lives for many decades. I still hope we can collaborate on a song! Thanks for being a loyal member of Local 655. Your fan,

Steve Roitstein
President, AFM Local 655
I am a trumpet player, from homestead, fl. Although I am currently in the military (5 years), I still practice my instrument because it keeps me focused and keeps me moving and hope that one day I can be as good as Wynton Marsalis or Arturo Sandoval, my music idols. I am always happy to know that there are people out there that struggle to keep music alive, and to help many pursue the true meaning that come behind it. Thanks to people lile Candido Camero that is making a difference for everyone to look up to in todays society! :-)

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