If you’ve never seen six people turn their voices into an entire band, Vocal Sampling is probably worth a look.
The Cuban vocal sextet returns to the Canary Islands after several years away, with a special tour bringing its rather unusual approach to Teatro Leal in La Laguna on Tuesday 6 October.
And when I say unusual, I mean there isn’t a guitar, drum kit or piano hiding somewhere backstage.
Six voices, one orchestra
Founded in Havana in 1989, Vocal Sampling has built an international reputation by recreating the sound of a full musical ensemble using nothing but their voices, body percussion and some serious vocal talent.
Their repertoire brings together Cuban son, salsa, bolero, jazz and contemporary popular music, with the six performers creating rhythms, melodies and instrumental sounds entirely with their voices.
It’s one of those things that sounds simple until you actually see someone do it.
Three decades on the road
Vocal Sampling has spent more than 30 years performing around the world, appearing at festivals and theatres across America, Europe, Asia and Africa.
The group has become something of an ambassador for Cuban music, combining musical virtuosity with humour, energy and plenty of interaction with the audience.
The Canary Islands tour gives audiences here the chance to see a group that has been doing this for decades, but still manages to make the concept feel slightly ridiculous in the best possible way.
Six people standing on a stage and somehow producing an entire musical universe without conventional instruments.
Vocal Sampling at Teatro Leal
📅 Tuesday 6 October 2026
🕗 20:00
📍 Teatro Leal, Calle Obispo Rey Redondo, 50, La Laguna
🎭 Numbered seating
For PMR accessible seating, tickets must be purchased directly through the Teatro Leal box office, either by phone on 922 265 433 or in person.
The box office is open:
- Monday to Saturday: 11:00 to 13:00 and 18:00 to 20:00
- Sunday: Opens two hours before the performance
Expect Cuban rhythms, vocal percussion, plenty of energy and six voices doing considerably more work than most bands manage with a van full of equipment.