20–27 June 2027 | Finca Ará Oko, Andalucía, Southern Spain
A week of Afro-Cuban percussion, rhythm and musical exchange in the beautiful mountains of La Alpujarra
Join Bombo Productions for an immersive seven-night Afro-Cuban percussion retreat at Finca Ará Oko, our ancient off-grid farmhouse in the mountains of southern Spain, with spectacular views towards the Mediterranean Sea.
For the fourth consecutive year, we are delighted to welcome Bárbaro Crespo, known as Machito, one of Cuba’s leading masters of Afro-Cuban folkloric percussion.
A ritual drummer and rumbero from a dynasty of folkloric percussionists in Havana, Machito brings a wealth of knowledge and experience rooted in the musical traditions of Cuba. Before moving to Europe, he was a leading member of the renowned rumba group Osain del Monte.
This retreat offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Afro-Cuban percussion, deepen your rhythmic understanding and experience the music through direct participation, ensemble playing and cultural exchange.
The Percussion Programme
Our five-day programme offers four hours of expert tuition each day, led by Machito, alongside opportunities for additional practice, informal playing and musical exchange.
Throughout the week, participants will have the opportunity to:
- Develop their Afro-Cuban percussion techniques and rhythmic understanding.
- Explore traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms and their musical and cultural contexts.
- Work on ensemble playing, listening and rhythmic communication.
- Develop greater confidence, independence and musical expression.
- Learn directly from a musician whose knowledge is deeply rooted in Cuba’s folkloric traditions.
- Participate in informal practice sessions and spontaneous musical gatherings.
Machito’s clear, intuitive teaching style and his warm, encouraging approach create a supportive atmosphere in which participants can develop their skills and deepen their understanding of the music.
More Than Just a Percussion Course
One of the things that makes this retreat special is what happens beyond the scheduled workshops.
Much of the magic emerges through the spontaneous jams after class, conversations around the table and impromptu musical moments that naturally unfold throughout the week.
Machito’s generosity, extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for sharing his musical heritage have made him an integral part of the Finca Ará Oko retreat community.
There will also be an opportunity to participate in a live musical gathering at our local village bar, bringing the music beyond the retreat setting.
Meet Your Tutor – Bárbaro Crespo (Machito)
Machito is a highly respected Cuban percussionist, ritual drummer and rumbero, born into a family of folkloric musicians in Havana.
His musical background encompasses the rich traditions of Afro-Cuban sacred and secular drumming, and his experience includes performing with Osain del Monte, one of Havana’s renowned rumba groups.
As a teacher, Machito combines exceptional musicianship with an accessible, generous approach, encouraging students to develop their understanding of both the technical and cultural dimensions of Afro-Cuban percussion.
A Beautiful Setting for Music
The retreat takes place at Finca Ará Oko, an ancient Andalusian farmhouse set high in the mountains of La Alpujarra.
Our retreats are deliberately small, creating a welcoming and informal atmosphere where participants can develop their musical skills, relax and enjoy spending time together.
Your stay includes:
- Seven nights’ accommodation in single rooms, shared rooms or glamping tents.
- Three delicious home-cooked meals each day.
- Five days of percussion workshops, with four hours of tuition each day.
- Access to drums during the retreat.
- Opportunities for additional practice, informal jams and musical exchange.
There is also plenty of time to relax by the plunge pool, explore the surrounding countryside or simply enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery.
For photographs of the accommodation, facilities and surroundings, visit the Finca Ará Oko retreat page.
What Our Participants Say
Our retreats bring together musicians from different backgrounds who share an enthusiasm for Afro-Cuban music, learning and community.
You can read feedback from previous participants in our Google Reviews on the Finca Ará Oko website.
Retreat Prices, Early Bird Offer & Payment Information
20–27 June 2027
Book by 28 February 2027 and save £50 on your retreat accommodation. Standard prices apply from 1 March 2027.
A £150 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place. The remaining balance is due six weeks before the retreat begins, by 9 May 2027.
Your booking is only confirmed once your deposit has been received.
Please read our Retreat Cancellation Policy and Participation Guide before booking.
Register for the Retreat
To register for Machito’s Afro-Cuban Percussion Retreat, please visit the Finca Ará Oko retreat page using the link below.
IMPORTANT: Once you have opened the page, please scroll down to find and complete the retreat registration form.
VIEW RETREAT DETAILS & REGISTER HERE
Places are limited, and we recommend booking early to secure your preferred accommodation.
We look forward to welcoming you to Finca Ará Oko for another inspiring week of Afro-Cuban percussion, music and friendship in the mountains of southern Spain.
