Nestor Torres

WUCF's June artist for 'In the Key of Latin Jazz' is Nestor Torres. Born in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, his father bought him his first drum set at age five. But eventually, he chose the flute despite his father's concerns. He moved to New York at eighteen to study classical and jazz. His unique melodic and danceable sound is shaped by his time studying the 'Charanga'. Over the past 40 years, his recordings have garnered multiple Grammy nominations and one Latin Grammy award, achieving notable status both onstage and with his commitment to the youth. Both his solo recordings and collaborations mark the work of a great artist with a crossover fusion of sounds. He has worked with diverse artists such as Gloria Estefan, Kenny Loggins, Dave Mathews, Herbie Hancock, and Tito Puente. Now residing in Miami, Torres continues to contribute to the music that lights up his life. "Thank You, Willie" is his latest record – dedicated to Willie Payne.