The clave is a fundamental rhythmic pattern and organizing principle in Cuban music. It serves as both a musical pattern and a guiding concept, deeply rooted in Afro-Cuban traditions.
The piano is the harmonic and rhythmic heart of Cuban popular music. In timba"> timba, it is one of the most demanding and expressive instruments in the ensemble.
The trumpet has been central to Cuban popular music since the 1920s, when it became the lead melodic voice of the son septeto — the "seventh voice" that transformed the ensemble.