Martin Aguilar comes from a long line of musicians that can be traced back to the 19th century.
Born in Jinotepe, Nicaragua, he began playing guitar at an early age and by the time he was 13, Martin was performing in folk trios. He displayed an uncanny talent for learning and in his teens studied percussion and vocal. During those early years he started playing reggae and calypso from the Mosquito Coast of Nicaragua. He had the honor of being a guest musician of famous Grupo Pancasan and occupied the distinguished position of director of vocal ensemble for Grupo Origenes with whom he won several national awards. Some of Martin’s guitar compositions have been featured in documentaries, short films and ad campaigns.Martin is the main vocalist, composer and arranger for Los Majes. After his move to Calgary he lent his talent to Latin bands like Epoca, Fiebre Latina, Sabor Tropical, Saboga Bay and Cocomambo. As well as being a guitar player he plays the congas, timbales and Andean flutes. He draws inspiration from artists like Tito Puente, Mongo santamaria and Poncho Sanchez and bands like Fania and El Gran Combo.
Under his own label Martin has written, performed and produced four CD’s which he describes as a sampling of all the rhythms in Central America – Trovas de Pueblo, Eclectico 1, Viva la fiesta and Canciones de un joven. He is currently working on a new dance compilation for Los Majes which will be available the summer of 2008. He has also produced and been featured on some tracks for Guillermo Serpas, Ofrey Rodriguez and Grupo Xitlali to name a few.
Los Majes also features Rico Miranda (Nicaragua) on congas and Roberto Sosa (Nicaragua) on timbales and bongoes.
Los Majes means “the guys”.
This dynamic duo consists of an established Latin guitarist and a world traveled hand percussionist. The combination of these two extraordinary talents is a unique blend of Latin and world beat music mixed with a collection of fresh original songs. Los Majes has been influenced by an array of musicians; Ray Barreto, Papo Luca and Sonora Ponceña to name a few. Their influence on the group has created an infusion of many styles including salsa, merengue, cumbia, cha-cha and rumba flamenco to create a Fiesta Mix. The music of Los Majes takes the listener through a rainbow assortment of Latin rhythms and styles. The music is an emotional smorgasbord from a hungry rage to a sensuous romance that draws upon elements of Latin culture. The shows are full of energy and dance lovers from across the cultural spectrum are inspired by the beat and the rhythms. The sultry sounds of a tropical paradise come to mind when one hears the pulsing rhythms and sweet melodies of Los Majes.Formed in 2002 by Martin Aguilar, guitarist and musical director, Los Majes is considered by many the most prolific and lively Latin group in Alberta. They have developed a reputation as one of the regions most popular, entertaining and professional bands. The group has played at private parties, weddings, festivals, conventions, non-profit events as well as performing on a weekly basis at Fantino Club in downtown Calgary.
The music never stops when you have Los Majes in the room. Between live sets a “Cd/Mp3” collection of the most requested Latin songs is played. The band owns and operates a professional sound system insuring a consistent quality show night after night. DJ services are also available for after band performance. The group brings in other musicians to add extra flavour to an event. A regular featured artist is the talented timbale player Denis Sandoval.
Ricardo Miranda
No one can play the congas with as much passion as Ricardo. His communication with the audience through a spontaneous routine of hand dexterity makes Los Majes’s performances visually and musically attractive. He has been known to conjure the drum gods to share with his audience the sensuous gift of the Latin beat. Born in Jinotepe, Nicaragua, Ricardo inherited the best of the afro-Caribbean culture located along the Nicaraguan Atlantic coast. He studied with Nicaraguan musical legend master conguero Salvador Fernandez. While in Nicaragua he was well known in the musical scene of the 70’s and on several occasions had the opportunity to play beside the famous timbalero Jose “Chepito” Areas of the band Santana.
Like Giovanni Hidalgo or Luis Conte, Ricardo has been able to create a very personal style that encompasses the best of the Latin percussion technical tradition. His philosophy is that we all can dance to the rhythm or natural biobeat and so we are all able to learn the art of the hand drum to recreate that beat and bring joy to our lives. As well as playing with Los Majes Ricardo organizes workshops throughout the year to share his knowledge and passion.
