Ralph irizarry biography
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Tribute to The Masters: Ralph Irizarry
The music world mourns the loss of one of his greatest artists. A true master of his craft, bandleader, percussionist, timbalero Ralph Irizarry Sr. (Bronx, New York), passed away on September 5, 2021 at the age of 67, of complications from a deteriorating health condition. Latin Jazz Network pays tribute to his musical legacy.
Ralph Irizarry, recognized worldwide as an excellent percussionist, first fell in love with the timbal at an early age when his father coincidentally brought home a set received as payment for a debt. A self-taught musician, Irizarry developed a highly efficient and personalized style of playing while leaving an enduring mark on the artists with whom he collaborated. His love for the instrument evolved into a full-fledged passion that fueled his career since 1970. Irizarry acknowledged, without reservation, that this passion had been all consuming since he was a youngster, and that it was the same passion that he alwa
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Ralph Irizarry & Timbalaye Vinyl Records & Discography
Who is Ralph Irizarry & Timbalaye? A Brief Career Overview
Ralph Irizarry & Timbalaye is an electrifying ensemble helmed by the remarkable percussionist Ralph Irizarry. Best known for blending traditional afro-Cuban percussion with contemporary jazz influences, this group has captivated audiences across the globe. Featuring a rich tapestry of sounds that echoes with the rhythms of Latin America and the essence of jazz, their music stands out as a pioneering force that celebrates cultural fusion.
Ralph Irizarry, who was born on July 18, 1954, truly made his mark in the music industry, showcasing his distinctive playing style and profound musicality. With an impressive history collaborating with giants like Harry Belafonte and Celia Cruz, he brought authenticity and emotional depth to every project. The formation of Timbalaye in 1996 reflected his dedication to pushing cultural and artistic boundaries. Their i
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You can’t beat sheer talent and natural gifts for getting yourself noticed, and dazzling New York-based percussionist Ralph has an overabundance of both. Ralph Irizarry, recognized worldwide as a top percussionist, first fell in love with the timbale at an early age when his father brought home a set received as payment for a debt. A self-taught musician, Irizarry has developed a highly efficient and personalized style of playing while leaving an enduring mark on the artists with whom he has collaborated. His love for the instrument evolved into a full-fledged passion that has fueled his career since 1970. Irizarry admits, without reservation, that this passion has been all consuming since he was a youngster, and is the same passion that he infuses now into his music.
Born in New York’s Spanish Harlem, Ralph Irizarry’s family first moved to Brooklyn and then briefly to Queens, before finally relocating in Puerto Rico in 1970. There, he spent three years immersed in music and gained