Mahogany Chamber Music Series: “An Afternoon in Havana”

About This Event

Come join us for an afternoon of music featuring the music of Cuba! From Latin rhythms and dancing to exploring the breath of their musical influence around the world. Featuring guest pianist Yami CruzMontero, local favorite on saxophone Michael Shults and mahogany curator and pianist Artina McCain.

McCain was inspired to create the series in 2019 because of her passion for all artists to have a voice. Audiences are thirsty to hear something new and there is so much stunning music to be discovered. The Mahogany Chamber Series brings in artists from all over the country and the world, to perform in Memphis.

Hailed by the New York Times as a “virtuoso pianist,” Artina McCain, has built a formidable career as a performer, educator, and speaker. As a recitalist, her credits include performances at Wigmore Hall in London, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Weill Hall at Carnegie in New York City, and more.

A multi-faceted artist, McCain has been featured in a mirage of spaces. From mistress of ceremony at the Cliburn competition to guest artist at the Gates Foundation Goalkeepers and Saint Heron concert programs curated by Solange Knowles. After years of battling a performance injury, she uses her miraculous recovery to serve as an advocate of musicians’ wellness. Most recently, the BBC featured her on the podcast Sideways, telling her healing story.

Known for promulgating the work of the unsung, she has multiple album collaborations and commissions with duo partner Martin McCain, bass trombone. She arranged 24 African American Folk Songs for the Hal Leonard series for beginning and intermediate pianists. In 2026, she will release the first edition of Grammy Award winning composer, Joseph Joubert’s virtuosic piano transcriptions through the Frances Clark Center.

Date and Time

March 29, 2026 @ 3:00 pm