The seven-stringed armónico was invented by Máximo Francisco Repilado Muñoz Telles to bridge the harmonic gap between the traditional Spanish guitar and the tres. Known professionally as Compay Segundo, this Cuban musician achieved worldwide prominence late in life following the 1997 release of the Buena Vista Social Club album, a project that won several Grammy awards.
Early Career and Instrumentation
Born in Siboney in 1907, he moved to Santiago de Cuba at age nine. His formal musical training began under Enrique Bueno at the Municipal Band of Santiago de Cuba. After performing in a quintet, he relocated to Havana in 1934 to join the Municipal Band as a clarinetist. Over his career, he mastered the guitar and the tres, eventually developing his signature armónico instrument to expand his sonic range.
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In 1947, he formed the duo Los Compadres with Lorenzo Hierrezuelo. Serving as the second voice—the source of his stage name—he helped establish the group as one of the most successful musical acts in Cuba during the 1950s. While many contemporary musicians focused on the bolero, he maintained a distinct devotion to the son, citing the influence of Miguel Matamoros and a preference for the traditional son corto.
International Recognition
The international profile of his work expanded during the 1990s, catalyzed by Santiago Auserón. His performance in the 1997 Wim Wenders documentary film increased his global reach, particularly following the success of his composition 'Chan Chan'. His extensive recorded output continued into the 21st century with releases such as 'Las flores de la vida' in 2001 and 'Duets' in 2002.
Later Years and Legacy
Known for his vitality in his nineties, he performed for Fidel Castro and Pope John Paul II. He famously attributed his longevity to a diet of rum and mutton consommé. Despite his ambition to reach age 115, he died of kidney failure in Havana on 13 July 2003. He is buried at the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery. In 2007, a symphony orchestra performed his compositions to mark his centenary.
Fast facts
- Born: 1907, Siboney, Cuba
- Died: 13 July 2003, Havana
- Instruments: Guitar, tres, clarinet, armónico
- Group: Los Compadres
- Notable composition: Chan Chan
- Burial site: Santa Ifigenia Cemetery
Questions readers ask
Where did the name Compay Segundo come from?
Compay is a variation of compadre, and he was called Segundo because he traditionally sang the second voice in his musical partnerships.
What instruments did he play?
He was a guitarist and singer who also played the clarinet and the tres, in addition to inventing the seven-stringed armónico.
Achievements
- Notable work: Malavana
- Instruments: guitar and voice
- Genres: trova
