Where are you based, and how long have you been there?

I’m based in Lausanne – a city with around 140,000 inhabitants in the French part of Switzerland. I’ve been here for 26 years now.

Is it home? And if not, where is?

Yes, it is – as well as Cuba, my homeland. I feel like I have two homes, and I also feel like a citizen of the world.

How would you describe the current atmosphere where you live?

Switzerland has always felt like a breath of fresh air in the midst of a chaotic world. It is a place of great peace and security, a country where people believe in consensus, where it is possible to engage in dialogue despite having different opinions. That is something I really love. Lausanne, the city where I live, is very beautiful and cosmopolitan. However, the global situation is affecting things here too. This year, I can feel it on a political level, where we are unfortunately seeing a rise in rather aggressive initiatives from far-right parties that seek to penalise the press and culture, and to make life more difficult for immigrants.

What’s the music scene like there?

It’s very interesting and full of diversity, open to the world. When people think of Switzerland, they often fall into clichés – I had them myself before coming to live here – and I was pleasantly surprised to discover such a vibrant music scene. This diversity can be felt in music influenced by sounds from all over the world, from Africa to Latin America, Eastern Europe and beyond. There are many artists singing in different languages, including languages other than the Swiss national ones (which are already four!), and making music that blends their roots with jazz, electronic music and many other elements.

Who are the local music heroes? Who does everyone look up to?

I can only speak for myself, but I would say that artists such as Stephan Eicher, Erika Stucky, Erik Truffaz and Yello are definitely important references.

Who are the local musicians that you’re most excited about?

All of the artists that I mentioned above, but then there are also artists like Andreas Schaerer, a well-known vocal virtuoso and a very interesting musician, and Elina Duni, who is very unique in her aesthetic, in my opinion. I’m also excited about musicians who are currently building their profiles at national and international level, like Afra Kane – a soulful pianist and vocalist – and Lea Gasser, a young accordion player whose work I really enjoy.

When you’re not making music what do you do there? Where do you go?

I love being by the lake in Lausanne, and also walking through the vineyards in Lavaux – the views are simply breathtaking. In wintertime, I really enjoy going to the thermal baths as well.

Lastly, is there anywhere else you’d rather be?

I feel that the universe brought me here for many good reasons. I’m just grateful and happy to be where I am.

INTERVIEW BY RUSS SLATER JOHNSON