Grammy winner jams out with students

Music enthusiasts came together to listen to the soulful music of Poncho Sanchez, a Grammy Award winner and conga percussionist, at the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts on Friday, Jan. 25.An excited crowd filled the room despite the dreary weather, as Sanchez, 56, performed with university music students.”It’s an amazing experience,” stated Aaron Gangi, a music student.Rhythmic beats filled the room as the musicians played.Sanchez, a self-taught Latin conga player, told personal anecdotes, answered questions, and gave advice to aspiring musicians in between the mini-jam sessions.”Set a goal, stay focused, [and] make sure you know your instrument really well,” stated Sanchez. “You got to be dedicated…[and] you have to be able to play with as many [musicians] as you can.”Sanchez’s blood and soul literally go into his music, as he advised those who want to play the conga to bandage up their fingers and warm up their hands before playing.After the session, students expressed their enthusiasm.”I was a little nervous, but it was great,” said Jerry Espinoza, a Laredo Community College transfer student, who described the experience of playing beside a Grammy winner.”It was awesome because the energy flow in the room just comes to you,” said Gustavo Rojo about the musicians playing together.”A lot of people say if we stay in Laredo we’re not going to get anywhere, but he proved otherwise. It’s what you do that gets you to the top.”Sanchez mingled with the crowd and spoke with many after performing.”I’m proud.dd I feel honored to be here,” said Sanchez. “It’s good to see that jazz is finally doing well in Laredo.”Jose Guerra, the assistant band director and Sanchez’s cousin, said there are no words to describe the event.”It’s an honor and pleasure to the tenth power,” explained Guerra about having his cousin, who is also his mentor, jam out with his students and himself.”Everyone has talent, but you have to practice and know your instrument.”Sánchez and his ensemble won a Grammy in 2000 for Best Latin Jazz Album. They performed at Jamboozie the following evening, Jan. 26.For more information about Sanchez and his band, go to