Yosvany Terry comes from a musical family. His father, Eladio "Don Poncho" Gonzales, plays shekere and violin in the Charanga tradition. Initially inspired by his father, Yosvany began his musical education with the violin, and then switched to the saxophone when he started studying at the Amadeo Conservatory.

Although Yosvany studied classical music, he became interested in popular music, especially the Charanga style, when he and his brothers started attending performances with their father. In addition to playing saxophone, Yosvany playes the shekere in a style developed by his father who was taught by his uncle.

Yosvany performs with his band Columna B, and has worked with many illustrius musicians including Eddie Palmieri, Chucho Valdez, Walfredo de los Reyes, Sr., Orestes Villato, John Santos and the Machete Ensemble. Yosvany has also recorded with Los Terry, Steve Coleman and Jane Bunnett.

Listen to the interview I conducted with Yosvany, and hear him play a tune on his saxophone, as well as demonstrate his style of shekere.