The talented Cuban-Canadian pianist, Hilario Durán, triumphed on November 14 by securing the Latin Grammy for Best Arrangement. This recognition was awarded for his exceptional arrangement of “Night In Tunisia,” a piece he performs with his Latin Jazz Big Band and renowned Cuban clarinetist and saxophonist, Paquito D’Rivera.
During the award ceremony, Durán expressed heartfelt gratitude to his wife for her unwavering support and love, his family, and especially his mother, who instilled in him a passion for music. He also extended his thanks to the musicians in his band and to Paquito D’Rivera for their collaboration. A particularly meaningful acknowledgment was directed at Chucho Valdés, whom he credited for influencing him throughout his life.
“I also want to express my gratitude to Canada for embracing my art from the very first moment I set foot in that wonderful country,” Durán remarked as he proudly held his Grammy statue.
Meanwhile, Paquito D’Rivera had been nominated for Best Contemporary Classical Composition, but the award went to Mexican composer Arturo Márquez.