Marco Rizo

Marco Rizo Ayala (November 30, 1920 – September 8, 1998) was a Cuban-born pianist, composer, and arranger. He is best known for his role as pianist, arranger, and orchestrator for the American television sitcom I Love Lucy which aired from 1951 to 1957. Rizo's career combined classical training with Afro-Cuban and jazz rhythms, resulting in nearly 30 recorded albums. Born in Santiago de Cuba, he studied at the National Conservatory of Music in Havana under the tutelage of composer Pedro San Juan. In 1938, he became the official pianist of the Havana Philharmonic Orchestra. Throughout his career, Rizo showcased his mastery of 19th century compositions and collaborated with notable artists and orchestras.More