Ariel Garcia

Ariel Garcia Monterrey was born in Ciudad De La Habana, Cuba in 1977. He took his first steps toward art, guided by his mother Gipcia Monterrey, who is an amazing artist in her own right. At the age of eight, Gipcia enrolled Ariel and his brother Sandro in, "La Casa De La Cultura" (Cultural House) where he developed his artistic vision through painting. Sandro on the other hand, began with music. For 7 years "La Casa De La Cultura", provided the venue for Ariel to compete in various art shows and contests. At the age of fifteen, Ariel’s dreams of becoming the next Picasso were thwarted when he was rejected by the national art school, “Instituto de Arte, San Alejandro.” He stopped painting…

One day Ariel woke up inspired and asked Sandro to teach him some songs; Sandro did. After a near obsession with perfecting scales and melodies, Arioel began composing original score. At twenty two Ariel had about 20 songs. Eager to create a space where young artists could share their passions, Ariel co-founded the, “Peña de la Trova", at his church. This forum was a weekly open mic for dancers, singers and artists to practice perform and share with the community. From 2000 until 2002, Ariel broadened his scope of audience to various cafes, and became a member of the " Asociación HERMANOS SAIZ,” thereby becoming a member of the Novisima Trova Movement.

It was during those years, Ariel had the opportunity to record his first album, “No Quiero Morir,”(2001) in one of Habana’s best theaters, Amadeo Roldan. He gathered the best musicians he knew, Cuban and international alike. In February of 2002, Ariel moved to California.

Ariel can be found hosting the hottest open mic in Petaluma at Ray’s Delicatessen and Tavern every other Wednesday night. He regularly plays at The Redwood Café in Cotati, Aqus Café in Petaluma, the Pt. Reyes Farmers Market and the annual Petaluma Music Festival. Ari can be heard on the local radio station KRSH (95.9) and has recorded 2 more albums, “Live on the KRSH”(2007) and “Y Yo Decia”( 2013). In his last album, he has collaborated with the lovely violinist Sharon Drake of Inverness.

Ariel is an active musician, available for weddings, private events and concerts. He is an active and collaborative community member in continual search for musicians who share the love of sound and silences.