Rafael Méndezwas a popular Mexican virtuoso solo trumpeter. He is known as the "Heifetz of the Trumpet."... (wikipedia)
My uncle taught me to play. He loved American music even though he didn't know the language.
Some groups are nationally known, some regionally and some local, but they're all giving their time. Giving back and sharing is the whole idea of the Gala.
As my playing progressed I started playing Santana and Jimmy Hendrix.
The blues for me ? you just feel it. It's one of the easiest forms to play, but very few people can make other people feel the blues when you play it. If it wasn't for the blues I wouldn't even want to play the guitar.
I'm pretty sure if he was alive today, he would support our gala. In fact, I believe if he was alive today, he might even perform at the gala.