The organization, which expresses in its statement that the island’s music community is mourning the loss, says: “With deep sorrow we report the death of musician Ruben Leliebre del Toro, which occurred on August 18, 2025. Santiago de Cuba loses one of its most exceptional talents whose musical legacy enriched national and international culture.

Leliebre that was born on August 6, 1981, and dedicated his life to music,” was an active member of the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) and a member of emblematic groups such as Candido Fabre y su Banda and the Septeto Sones de Oriente.

He was also an occasional collaborator with Juan Formell y los Van Van orchestra, and a member of the ICM (Mexico City Music Association).

Leliebre created award-winning pieces in national contests, including Chepin Choven competition, and collaborated on recording projects such as the CD “Flautas gigantes” (Giant Flutes) alongside 63 other flutists from 20 countries.

He was also associated with the Latin Academy of Music and Grammy Awards, working with the Septeto Santiaguero and Dominican Jose Alberto “El Canario.” His work fused Cuban musical traditions with contemporary innovations, contributing to the global projection of Cuban music, the Cuban Institute of Music added, and his participation in cross-cultural groups and projects reflected his commitment to artistic excellence.

The Cuban Institute of Music, along with the Ministry of Culture, extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers. Both entities meant that his passing leaves a void in the musical landscape, but his legacy will live on through his compositions and arrangements, a heritage of Cuban culture.

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