biography
Ariel Garcia Monterrey was born in Ciudad De La Habana, Cuba in 1977. He took his first steps toward art, guided by his mother Gipcia Monterrey, who is an amazing artist. At the age of eight Gipcia enrolled Ariel and his brother Sandro in, "La Casa De La Cultura" (Cultural House) where he developed his artistic vision through painting. Sandro on the other hand began with music. For 7 years "La Casa De La Cultura", provided the venue for Ariel to compete in various art shows and contests. At the age of fifteen Ariel’s dreams of becoming the next Picasso were thwarted when he was rejected by the national art school, “Instituto de Arte, San Alejandro.” He stopped painting…
One day Ariel woke up inspired and asked Sandro if he could teach him some songs; he did. After a near obsession with perfecting scales and melodies, he began composing original score. At twenty two Ariel had about 20 songs. Eager to create a space where young artists could share their passions, Ariel co-founded the, “Peña de la Trova", at his church. This forum was a weekly open mic for dancers, singers and artists to practice perform and share with the community. From 2000 until 2002, Ariel broadened his scope of audience to various cafes, and became a member of the "Asociación HERMANOS SAIZ,” thereby becoming a member of the Novisima Trova Movement.
It was during those years, Ariel had the opportunity to record his first demo, “No Quiero Morir,” in one of Habana’s best theaters. He gathered the best musicians he knew Cuban and International alike. In February of 2002, Ariel moved to California with his wife Sarah Seitchik. Since moving, Ariel has continued to play live in local café’s, bars and weddings. He can be heard on the local radio station KRSH (95.9) and has a new live album, “Live on the KRSH”.
Ariel is an active musician, in continual search for other musicians who share
the love of sound and silences.