Yurisander — Percussion & Songwriting Teacher

Yurisander is a highly experienced Cuban percussionist, singer, and composer with over 13 years of teaching experience in Sydney. He trained at the Félix Varela School of Music in Havana, where he studied for six years and completed both Elementary and Superior levels of music. While in Cuba, he performed as a conga player on recordings with bands such as Cuba Nueva, blending traditional Cuban rhythms with Blues, Jazz, and Flamenco, and began teaching percussion privately before relocating to Australia.

His teaching is rooted in authentic Cuban tradition, covering a wide range of instruments including congas, timbales, bongos, batá, chékere, campana, and güiro. Lessons explore styles such as salsa, son, timba, guaguancó, merengue, and cumbia, giving students a deep understanding of rhythm, coordination, and musical feel. Drawing from both formal training and real-world performance experience, Yurisander focuses on building strong foundations while helping students connect to the cultural roots of the music.

Lessons are interactive, energetic, and tailored to each student’s goals, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine advanced technique. Yurisander emphasises musicality, expression, and confidence, creating an environment where students not only develop technical skill, but genuinely enjoy the process of learning and playing. Many of his students continue into workshops and group sessions, reflecting the engaging and motivating nature of his teaching.