Mourning in Santiago's Music Scene: The Passing of Maestro Marco Tulio Niño Wong

The music community in Santiago de Cuba is in mourning following the passing of esteemed violinist and teacher, Marco Tulio Niño Wong, who died on Monday afternoon. The news was confirmed by the Miguel Matamoros Music and Entertainment Company, which announced on its Facebook page that, as per his family's wishes, the maestro will be cremated, and his ashes will be placed in the family vault in San Luis municipality.

Yorisel Andino, director of the Dolores Concert Hall, also expressed her sorrow on Facebook, highlighting the loss of one of the most prominent figures in concert music in the region. "With great sadness, the music community in Santiago receives the news of Maestro Marco Tulio Niño Wong's passing. He was a vital member of the Sinfónica de Oriente, serving as director at various times and more recently leading the Camerata Esteban Salas, leaving behind a significant legacy in concert music," she wrote on social media.

His colleagues from the Sinfónica de Oriente, Sala Dolores, and the Music Company paid tribute with heartfelt homage, remembering his talent and dedication to the arts. "Fly high, maestro," was the message shared by his close ones and students as they bid farewell.

The Provincial Telecentre Tele Turquino also shared the news on Facebook, underscoring his career achievements and the impact of his legacy. Their post highlighted Niño Wong's excellence both in teaching and performing, describing him as a passionate musician with noble ideals and great humanity.

Niño Wong was the first violinist of the Orquesta Sinfónica de Oriente and led several of its performances. He also played with the philharmonic and symphony orchestras in Chile, Peru, and Italy. Throughout his career, he shared the stage with music legends like Frank Fernández, Plácido Domingo, Alfredo Kraus, and Fito Páez.

"His art remains in the city he loved so dearly. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, colleagues, and friends," concluded Tele Turquino's message, reflecting the respect and admiration the maestro garnered in Santiago and across Cuba.

Cuban music has faced several significant losses in early 2025. One of the most shocking was the death of iconic salsa artist Paulo FG, who tragically died in a car accident on March 1st along Havana's Malecón. Known as "El Sofocador de la Salsa," he left a profound impact on Cuban dance music.

Just weeks earlier, on February 12th, Cuban trova mourned the loss of Eduardo Sosa at the age of 54. Sosa, celebrated for his dedication to traditional music, passed away following complications from a stroke suffered days prior.

Another notable loss was composer and producer Edesio Alejandro, who died on March 5th in Madrid at 66 after a long battle with cancer. Edesio was one of the most innovative figures in Cuban music, leaving an indelible mark on the industry with work that transcended genres and borders.

The year began with another tragic event in Santiago de Cuba, as singer Luis Magarola Reyes was laid to rest on January 26th. His funeral featured a heartfelt funeral serenade, honoring his musical career and contribution to Santiago's cultural scene.