Irving Flores - Pianist, Arranger, Composer
Bodhi Tree Concerts:
Who inspires you, musically and otherwise and why?
Irving Flores:
I grew up always surrounded by the smell of cases, charts, and the metal of the horns and other rhythm section instruments, on a big band where my Dad was playing. My Dad was my first teacher at 5 years old. Seeing the big figure of my Dad, it inspired me to be a musician, which was a lot of responsibility since my Dad is an amazing musician, arranger and composer.
BTC:
What is your favorite jazz album/recording and why?
Irving:
Orquesta Coatzacoalcos (1966) - it was the first album I heard in my life. All musicians on this orchestra, were hungry to play good music, with original arrangements, discovering the magic of jazz with a fusion of Latin rhythms. Later an album with score and sound, that changed my way of thinking of music was Rachmaninoff-Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxhQBIP32Bs)
BTC:
Would you talk about collaborating & performing with Gilbert?
Irving:
Well, I arrived to San Diego10 years ago looking for the best musicians in town. I met Gilbert Castellanos and I just told him " I want a play with you man…" Today I'm part of the 'Gilbert Castellanos and the New Latin Jazz Quintet'. I had the opportunity to be a part of the 'Federal Jazz Project' conducted by him. I'm honored to have Gilbert Castellanos on my new album 'American Influence' and to have him as a special guest for this concert.
BTC:
This concert will raise funds for 2 local organizations that support arts education in SD schools. Can you tell us about your early musical training and exposure? How did these experiences and education shape who you are today?
Irving:
Unfortunately in Mexico (where I'm originally from) it didn't happen during those years before I started my musical career. Today, I'm so glad to be part of this fundraiser for a new generation of musicians.
BTC:
What is your favorite charity?
Irving:
Teletón: The Teletón in Mexico is an annual 24-plus-hour TV and radio broadcast, started in 1996, to raise money for children's rehabilitation centers for disabled children. http://www.teleton.org/home/index
TC:
What is your favorite San Diego restaurant?
Irving:
Jyoti-Bihanga - Vegetarian Restaurant 3351 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA