Originally from the Dominican Republic, Miguel "Papilon" Alvarez became interested in music at an early age, so his parents enrolled him in the Concervatorio De Musica in Santo Domingo. Papilon rapidly progressed and was invited to perform with the Orquesta Sinfonica.

When his family moved to New York City, Papilon, with his extensive knowledge of music, chose to join musical groups that were distinguished by their method of playing Merengue. In 1989, Papilon formed Orquesta of Madda Lake, and in 1990, he created the successful The Street Band, which played a popular style of Merengue. From 1994 to 1996, Papilon performed with international groups like the Zafiro Y Su Orquesta.

From 1998 to 2001, he performed with orchestras like Ramon Orlando Y La Orquesta. He also played with the Salsa band, Dominic Y Orquesta, from 1998 until 2000. More recently, he has also performed and/or recorded with many international artists including Angelo Y Su Conjunto, Madera Fina, Kiko Franko, Raulin Rosendo, Victor Wail, Rey Reyes, Jose Bello, Alex Matos, Miriam Cruz, Anthony Cruz, Ismael Rivera, Jr., Lalo Rodriguez, La Sophy, Chuchito Valdez, Venezuela, Hidemaro and Quarte to name just a few.

Endorsements:
Latin Percussion:
http://www.lpmusic.com/artists/artist/MiguelPapilonAlvarez/

Soultone Cymbals:
http://soultonecymbals.com/artist/miguel-papilon-alvarez

Videos:
Miguel Alvarez- Congahead Tambora Demonstration Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-1wSbRdVYs

Corina- Aunque Me Duela (salsa)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUJaXmw8DBk

Fulton Vazquez - Muchachita (fusion)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfB-XQQjbCk

Manole - Todavia Creo En El Amor
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofhPBRyQ7zY