Rafael Duchesne Mondríguez was a prominent Puerto Rican composer and conductor, born on May 15, 1890, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. His early life was marked by the loss of his parents at the age of ten, which led him to the Boys Charity School in Santurce, where he began his musical education. By 16, he joined a dance band in his hometown, launching a successful career as a clarinetist and teacher.

In 1917, Duchesne moved to New York to become a soloist with the 369th Infantry Regiment Band. Upon returning to Puerto Rico, he played a significant role in the island's musical scene, joining the Symphonic Orchestra and other prestigious ensembles as the first clarinetist. In 1940, he became the director of the Orchestra of Blind People and later taught at the Free School of Music until 1955.

Duchesne was a prolific composer, particularly known for his contributions to the Puerto Rican danza genre. His work extended to minuets, hymns, marches, art songs, a zarzuela, a symphony, and an overture, although some of these remained unpublished. He received numerous awards throughout his career, notably from the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture and the Círculo de Recreo de San Germán. In 1981, he was honored with a certificate for his cultural contributions, and in 1982, he was inducted into the Gallery of Fame of Puerto Rican Dance Composers.

Rafael Duchesne passed away on February 22, 1986, leaving a lasting legacy in Puerto Rican music. His compositions continue to be celebrated for their cultural significance and artistic merit.