José Antonio Méndez Padrón is one of the most prominent young musicians on today’s Cuban classical scene. He is the principal conductor of the Havana Lyceum Orchestra, which he has been instrumental in shaping since 2016. Having received his musical training in Havana, where he studied conducting, piano and composition, he has dedicated himself entirely to promoting classical music in his country. Through his work, he has succeeded in uniquely bridging the gap between the Old and New Worlds, combining European classical music with Cuban musical traditions such as salsa, mambo and son. With the Havana Lyceum Orchestra, he performs a diverse repertoire ranging from the First Viennese School to contemporary works, with the addition of many programmes with a Latin American focus. He has attracted international attention through tours and collaborations with artists such as Sarah Willis, with whom he initiated the successful series »Mozart y Mambo«. Guest conducting engagements and invitations have taken him to Europe and the USA, among other places.