Michael McClintock: Renowned Multi-Instrumentalist, Composer, and Educator
Bachelor of Music in Classical Guitar Performance
Post-Studies in Jazz, Flamenco, Brazilian, and Cuban Music
Specialized Studies in Cuban Tres
Founder-Director of Cubanisms
Member of Ensemble Iberica and Slim Hanson and The Poor Choices
Michael McClintock is an internationally acclaimed musician known for his versatility across a diverse range of musical genres. With a unique style of interpreting the guitar and harmonizing with beautiful melodies, Michael's work spans from Jazz to Cuban and Brazilian music. His distinctive interpretation of the Cuban Tres (a native Cuban guitar) and his innovative incorporation of the instrument into various musical styles have established him as a celebrated Tresero worldwide.
Educational Background:
Michael graduated from the University of Missouri Kansas City Music Conservatory in 2006 with a Bachelor of Music in Classical Guitar Performance, studying under the esteemed guitarist Douglas Niedt. He furthered his education with post-university studies in Jazz, Flamenco, Brazilian, and Cuban music.
Professional Musical Journey:
Michael's career began with the Manos Rojas School of Flamenco in Kansas City, collaborating with Beau Bledsoe. In 2007, he co-founded Alma Flamenca, an independent Flamenco group that toured the Midwest. His passion for Brazilian music led to the formation of Mistura Fina in 2010, a group that became a staple in the Kansas City Jazz scene.
In 2012, Michael co-founded Broken String, blending North American Jazz, Spanish Flamenco, and Brazilian music. His innovative performances and compositions have been well-received across various audiences.
Michael's love for Cuban music began in 2013 during his first visit to Cuba. He quickly mastered the Cuban Tres, performing professionally in the USA and gaining recognition as a virtuoso Tresero. He studied under iconic Treseros Dr. Efrain Amador and Cesar Hechavarria, enriching his mastery of the instrument.
Ensemble Iberica:
Since 2013, Michael has been a key member of Ensemble Iberica, performing music from Spain, Portugal, and the colonial Americas. He has collaborated with Grammy award winner Mireya Ramos, The Texmaniacs, and many other renowned artists.
Cubanisms:
In 2016, Michael and his wife Dálida T. Pupo Barrios founded Cubanisms to promote Cuban culture. The project includes guided travel services to Cuba and a music ensemble led by Michael, blending Jazz with Cuban and Brazilian rhythms. Cubanisms released their debut album "Acento Cubano" in 2017 and "Trilingual" in 2019, receiving acclaim in the USA, Colombia, and Cuba.
Performances and Recognition:
Michael has performed at prestigious events such as the Jazz Plaza International Festival in Havana, Cuba, alongside notable musicians like Janio Abreu, Victor Goines, and Ivan "Melon" Lewis. His performances have been featured in DVDs released by the Cuban record label Bismusic.
He has been nominated by The Pitch for "Best Musician KC" in 2018 and 2019, and his band Cubanisms has also received nominations for "Best Local Band KC."
Slim Hanson and The Poor Choices:
Michael is a member of Slim Hanson and The Poor Choices, a Country and Western band. Their album "Sin Fronteras," released in 2023, featured collaborations with Grammy winners such as Los Texmaniacs and Flor de Toloache, and was considered for a Grammy nomination.
Original Compositions and Teaching:
Since 2020, Michael has been releasing original compositions, showcasing his diverse musical repertoire. As a passionate music instructor with nearly 20 years of experience, Michael has gained international recognition through his YouTube channel and online lessons, bringing Jazz, Brazilian rhythms, and the Cuban Tres to a global audience.
Relocation to Paris:
In 2023, Michael relocated to Paris, France, marking a new chapter in his musical career. His journey continues to captivate followers and music enthusiasts around the world.
Contact Information:
For bookings, lessons, and more information, please contact Michael at michaelmcclintockmusic@gmail.com
