Enric Madriguera

Spanish-American Orchestra Leader and Composer

Spanish born American composer, violinist and bandleader. Born 18 February 1902 in Barcelona, Spain. Died 7 September 1973 in Danbury, Connecticut, USA. His wife was singer Patricia Gilmore. They owned and operated La Ronda-an-Inn night club in Newton, Connecticut, beginning in December of 1952. His sister was pianist Paquita Madriguera. He was a violin prodigy who did much to popularize Latin-American dance music in America. He began playing violin on his own accord at the age of six. He played in his church then studied at the Conservatory of Music in Barcelona, and received the degree of Professorship of Violiln at the age of thirteen. All of his early training in music was classical.Shortly thereafter he did recitals in America and decided to stay in New York and study with the celebrated Russian violin teacher Leopold Auer, studying with him for four years before returning to Europe. A tour in Cuba opened his eyes (and ears) to Latin music and he quickly added the music to his orchestra.