Benefit concert held at Hostos Community College Center for the Arts in honor of Latin jazz legend Dave Valentin

A benefit concert in honor of one of Latin music's greats was held at the Hostos Community College Center for the Arts Tuesday night. Dave Valentin is a Grammy Award winner and holds the honor of being

News 12 Staff

Jul 2, 2014, 6:46 AM

Updated 3,773 days ago

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A benefit concert in honor of one of Latin music's greats was held at the Hostos Community College Center for the Arts Tuesday night.
Dave Valentin is a Grammy Award winner and holds the honor of being named best flutist by Jazz Magazine seven years running. Valentin suffered a serious stroke back in March 2012, so the concert is a way to both pay tribute to his work and raise money for his medical expenses and basic living needs.
A lifelong resident of the Bronx, Valentin's love for music started early. He began playing bongos and congas before the age of 10 and was even working Latin clubs in the city by 12.
For 30 years, the flutist traveled the world leading his band and backing jazz legends like Tito Puento and serving as his musical director.
Nelson Gonzalez, one the performers in tonight's show, says that it is wonderful and humbling to be honoring Valentin, who truly deserves it.
The concert featured an array of famous Latin jazz artists, including Eddie Palmieri, Arturo O'Farrill, Nicky Marrero and many others.