As a child, Alfredo Rodriguez adored music and wanted most of all to be a drummer. However, once admitted to the conservatory, he chose the piano. A good choice, because, at an early age, the Cuban developed into an elegant but explosive pianist. He was soon rated among the best of his generation. An invitation to the prestigious Montreux jazz festival where he met Quincy Jones, proved to be his breakthrough. In 2009, Rodriguez escaped to the United States, where he was granted political asylum and has resided to date. Under his mentor Jones, the 24-year-old pianist now performs weekly and is working on his debut album. In addition, the Alfredo Rodriguez Trio is making its first European tour with the North Sea Jazz Festival luckily on the itinerary.