The Legends series is now richer for the inclusion of LP Legend Series Jose Madera Congas, winner of the 2009 M.I.P.A Award for best percussion product. Musical director Jose Joe Madera, born in New York City to Jose Pin Madera (first arranger for the Machito Orchestra), played timbales with “Machito” in his teens. He later became Tito Puente's conguero for 30 years and was the musical director of the Tito Puente Orchestra for 10 years. Jose has been staff arranger at Fania Records since the 1970s and has performed on over 100 recordings in Latin, Pop, R&B, and Jazz music.* 30 Siam Oak construction adds to the drum’s overall warm tone; unique shell contour brings out the drum’s mid and high sound ranges.* Fiberglass layer added to the inside upper portion of the shell to provide additional strength* Natural rawhide* Swirl gloss finish chosen by Joe Madera* Comfort Curve II Rims* Chrome Hardware, Reinforced LP Heart Side Plates with 5⁄16 diameter tuning lugs and LP ProCare Integrated Shell Protectors