Yago Cardalda
If we listed Yago’s full experience, you’d be reading a novel. Don’t worry. We’ll stick to the highlights.
Yago was raised on a diet of drums and piano chords, microphones and soundboards. He has been a prominent figure in music and theatre since he was barely a teenager. Although he studied at the Escuela de Música Creativa, specialising in drums, piano, voice and composition, and trained with some of the most highly regarded professionals in the industry, his innate talent, passion for learning, and unique abilities have served him well since he began at just 5 years of age.
As a drummer and performer, he has toured the world and played with countless artists (listed below). Much of the time, he was also the Musical Director, responsible for the music arrangements, as well as hiring and rehearsing the musicians. He has an impeccable reputation in the industry, and if you’ve ever seen a major band play on live TV in Spain, Yago is probably to be found either behind the drums, piano, or backstage with a pair of headphones on.
Artists include:
Mika, James Arthur, Disturbed, James Blunt, Marco Mengoni, Miley Cyrus,
Carlos Rivera, Paulina Rubio, Alvaro Soler, Niña Pastori, Rosario,
Cómplices, Nacho Campillo, Paty Cantú, Antonio José, Miriam Rodríguez,
Prince Royce, David Otero, Blas cantó, Javier Ojeda, Marlena, Neva,
Gente de zona, Pablo López, Dasoul y muchos más…
In addition to his live performance, Yago is a sought-after composer and producer, spanning genres and styles. His success is due in large part to his unfailing ability to bring out the best in the artists he works with, elevating their performance, composition, and professionality to the next level, while helping them hone their technique and find strength in their unique sound and expression.
Given his experience and passion not only for music, but also for art direction, character, acting, the theatre was a natural destination. In all cases listed below, Yago was also the touring Musical Director, responsible for the band, sequences, and vocal health and training.
As if this wasn’t enough, Yago wrote, composed, directed, designed and produced a successful musical entitled “Fritz the Musical,” which transferred out of the Teatro Lara for an extended run in the Teatro Arlequín on Gran Vía (for those of you who aren’t in Madrid, this is the equivalent of a West End/Broadway transfer).
Other theatrical credits include:
Superstars (based on Lady Gaga, Freddy Mercury, Elvis Presley, and Michael Jackson) - Musical Director, drummer
Cabaret - Musical Director, Drummer, and Master of Ceremonies
Thriller Michael Jackson - Musical Director, drummer, singing coach, principal soloist in “Man in the Mirror”
Fritz el musical- art direction, scenography designs, original scoring, script, acting director, music director
Cómplices el musical- Production concept, drummer
Abba el musical- Musical Director, drummer
Rockids- drummer, actor
As you can see, Yago’s experience is extensive, and one of his biggest joys is being able to share that experience with others. He has developed successful training methods for both singers and actors, and he coaches individuals, including competitors on programs such as Operación Triunfo, The Voice, and Got talent, as well as at numerous companies and schools. His performing arts training methods have been implemented throughout various schools in Galicia, and his intensive courses for singers have brought in performers from all over the country. He is always seeking out new ways to impact others, and to share his passion for creativity in all its facets.
Like we said, this is barely grazing the surface of what Yago has achieved. Maybe at some point it’ll be a novel. Or better yet, an audiobook…Work with us, soak in the knowledge, and get him to tell you some stories! He’s got plenty.
Be sure to give him a follow on Instagram!
He has a whole lot of exciting things going on, both with Compass Arts and independently.