Cuban musician and composer, César Pedroso, nicknamed Pupy, and 90 year-old singer, Adriano Rodríguez, were presented the National Music Awards for 2013, granted by the Culture Ministry to Cuban music celebrities for the work of their entire life.

At the ceremony held at Havana’s National Theater, Pedroso and Adriano received the awards by Cuban Deputy Culture Minister, Abel Acosta, and Music Institute President, Orlando Vistel. The prizes consisted of paintings by Cuban artist, Maykel Herrera, gifts by the Clave Cubana Agency, and other recognitions.

Jury President, Digna Guerra, said that the distinction recognizes the two musicians’ contribution to the island’s music scene throughout their careers in Cuba and abroad.  
In the case of César Pedroso, she added that he has dedicated his life to the creating and performing popular music rhythms from a renovated and updated view, without losing the island’s musical and dancing traditions.Referring to Adriano Rodríguez, Guerra, who is also the Director of Cuba’s National Choir, highlighted the work by Rodríguez who has devoted his life to singing a wide variety of genre, including romantic songs, zarzuela and others.    

The gala included the special performances of Edesio Alejandro and his band, the National Choir and the famous Cuban band Los Van Van, which closed the festive night.