david santiago keyboards

David Santiago was born in Queens, NY.  When he was a teenager he moved to Puerto Rico,  where he began to study the folkloric music of the island.  He later returned to NY and enrolled in piano lessons at the East Harlem Music School. 

Without any real playing experience, he landed a gig with the Joe Cuba Sextet, performing their trademark Boogaloo styled music, replacing their original pianist who had passed away.  When the band offered him permeant position, David declined, as he felt he was not quite up to snuff... but with the band's insistence, David quickly learned the tricks of the trade and he fit right in!

Now David is an integral member of the World Music Band, Sangha Tierra.  His dedication, style and enthusiasm for their music has added to Sangha Tierra's unique style and sound.