Today we’d like to introduce you to Fay Roberts.
Hi Fay, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a classically trained flutist with a BA from UCSB. In my musical adventures, I met Artie Webb, who played some of the best Charanga flute in the world. Also jazz and Latin jazz. He got me interested in really learning about Cuban music. I started sitting in, meeting more musicians, and eventually got in a small band that played at El Floridita in Hollywood. That eventually led to traveling to Cuba to study and starting my own band, Orquesta Charangoa. When in Cuba, I was lucky enough to find an amazing mentor, Richard Egues. It was with his help, music, and guidance that I was brave enough to start the band and keep it going for 25 years.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
So many struggles along the way, but that’s just part of any big project. In the early days of the band, Richard Egues was sending me music from Cuba, hand delivered by friends traveling back and forth. That took effort. Doing each CD. Doing so many things I’ve never done before. There is no school for band leaders, but there should be!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Orquesta Charangoa is known for having an authentic Cuban sound. I specialize in the Cuban flute style called Charanga. That’s the kind of group Charangoa is. It is a style that blends African rhythmic elements with classical/baroque flute melodic elements. I am most proud of our 2 CDs to date and for being a Yamaha artist.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
When I started out, I did not listen to those who told me I could not do it. That’s my advise. Don’t listen to the nay-sayers, just stay on your own creative path.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.charangoa.com
- Instagram: charangoa
- Facebook: Charangoa
- Youtube: Charangoa
