Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, Rodriguez's passion for music was ignited despite the numerous restrictions imposed on him by his country. He was discouraged at a young age by his first teacher, who dismissed him as untalented. Undeterred by this, Rodriguez's love of the piano persisted, even though he did not own an instrument at home. He drew piano keys on his parents' dining table to practise his scales - a testament to his determination and ingenuity.

Eventually, Alfredo was invited to represent Cuba at the Montreux Jazz Festival, where he impressed Quincy Jones. Jones recognised Rodriguez's great talent and invited him to work with him in the USA. To take advantage of this opportunity, however, he had to leave his family behind and embark on a journey for which he had to give up his Cuban citizenship. Since then, Rodriguez has had a remarkable career.

Supported by the Südkulturfonds.