A Visit to Cuba

By Phil Unger

Just before the pandemic, Mindy Kaufman (Piccolo for NY Philharmonic), Stephanie Jutt (Flute Professor, University of Wisconsin retired) and I decided to go to Cuba to help the Flute community in various ways. They presented numerous master classes and concerts and I went to train budding technicians in the art of flute repair. I was also able to bring over tools, supplies, and instruments for the students. The brainchild of this event was Niurka Gonzales. Niurka is the top flute player in her country and happens to be married to one of the most famous singers in all of Latin America, Silvio Rodriguez. This is a whole other story! Our time spent in Cuba was so successful and enlightening that we created the first Cuban flute competition in 2023. 

The first step of the flute competition consisted of promoting the event across the country. There were three age groups and in the end, we had about 200 students from all over Cuba participate. Many had never been to Havana, so this was a dream come true for them. Most came with their parents who were immensely grateful to have their children exposed to such high-level judges.  We plan to expand the competition in future years to include more of Central and South America, as well as adding more international judges.

For me, my time spent in Cuba was much more than an opportunity to help. I connected with this amazing country in ways not expected. The population lives under a communist regime and the U.S. has levied sanctions against the country. The result is a country that struggles for its necessities. But yet, its people are resilient and can find happiness in a challenging situation. 

Just like all the cars taped together from the 1950’s, the flutes are the same. It is hard to describe the condition of the instruments. My job every day was to get these flutes to play at their best. Not an easy task. New head joint corks are just the beginning! I was assisted by three very abled apprentices. To witness the smiles after handing back their flutes made our efforts so worthwhile. The flutists were so appreciative. I will keep these memories deep within my heart forever. 

Because we were very well connected within Cuba, we experienced the country through a colored lens. The best restaurants, good wine, and even an outing with a private driver to the countryside one day. But, Stephanie, Mindy, Helen (my wife) and I were very cognizant of our surroundings and the state of the infrastructure of Cuba. It can be seen that Havana was once the shining star of all of Latin America. The homes are palatial, but now falling apart. The neighborhoods were spectacular years ago, but are now crumbling. However, everyone does have a home despite the country’s condition. 

So, how have my two visits to Cuba changed me? In so many ways! As I am in sight of the twilight of my career, my time in Cuba has given me a new purpose and direction. I now know that I am in a position to have a positive influence on the Flute community in Cuba. This is now my passion and my mission. In the months and years going forward, I hope to put together a plan to find and deliver many instruments to the musicians of Cuba. They deserve this and if you could just hear how musically and soulfully they play, you would understand too.