Piano instructor

Varinia Fortines Zayas is a highly skilled pianist, educator, and performer with an impressive background in classical music. With a solid foundation in piano studies and a passion for both performance and teaching, she has made significant contributions to the world of music.

Early Education & Achievements

Varinia began her piano studies at the Leonardo Luberta Noy Elementary School of Art under the guidance of Yanelis Brito Perez. Her dedication and talent were evident early on, achieving:
• A final evaluation score of 98.60/100 and a perfect score in her level-passing test in Havana.
• First place in the Amadeo Roldán Competition for outstanding technical proficiency.
• A diploma for the most comprehensive student of her academic year.
• Honorable mentions in compulsory pieces at the Ernesto Lecuona Regional Piano Competition in Sancti Spíritus.
• First place and the Grand Prize in her category at the Ernesto Lecuona Regional Piano Competition.

Performance Experience

Varinia has an extensive background as a performer, participating in various prestigious events, including:

🎶 Concerts & Galas:
• Gala for the 185th and 190th anniversaries of Nueva Gerona’s founding.
• Pinera Culture Opening Galas in 2019, 2020, and 2023.
• 40th Anniversary Celebration of the island’s proclamation at the municipal cinema “Caribe.”
• Cultural performances at El Pinero Memorial Square.
• UNEAC municipal events (2019-2023).
• International Book Fair classical evening performances (2020-2024).

🎹 Accompanist & Collaborations:
• Accompanied the Isla Femenim Choir in multiple events.
• Served as an accompanying pianist for students of the National Arts School (ENA) and Superior Arts Institute (ISA) in instruments such as flute, piano, percussion, viola, Cuban tres, and violin.
• Acted as an accompanying pianist in national competitions for instruments like viola and trombone.
• Performed popular music in her school’s Charanga ensemble.
• Competed in the National Piano Contest (2017-2018 academic year).

Graduation & Teaching Career

In 2020, Varinia graduated as a piano teacher, ensemble pianist, and accompanist pianist. She then dedicated herself to music education and performance, including:

🎼 Teaching Experience:
• Teaching basic piano at the elementary arts school since 2020, instructing students from ages 4 to adults.
• Leading a classical music duo, Va&Os, performing concerts across the island.

🎭 Additional Artistic Endeavors:
• Participated as an actress and pianist in the premiere of The Marquise of Larkspur Lotion.
• Modeled for fashion and product showcases.

Current Engagements

Varinia is currently performing with the band Sol Caribe at Cayo Largo Resort, continuing to share her passion for music with a wider audience.