Nestor Torres

Lyric Theatre favorite Nestor Torres returns again for another joyful dazzling performance this fall. The Puerto-Rican jazz flautist revolutionized the role of the flute in contemporary music, combining his classical training at the Mannes School of Music with his inspired blend of Latin, jazz, and R&B influences. The Award-winning artist has graced the stage with music icons Gloria Estefan and Herbie Hancock and continues to create highly-celebrated works, including his newest album “Nouveau Latino” which was nominated for a Latin Grammy in 2009.

Nestor Torres studied at the Mannes School of Music in New York City as well as the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he learned to improvise in ‘Charanga,’ a Cuban dance style of music. However, Nestor truly developed his unique style in the 1980s playing in the hottest Latin dance clubs. In 1989, Torres released his first album, entitled “Morning Ride”, which rose quickly to reach the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts. This debut album brought him international attention and inspired hits such as “Luna Latina,” nominated for a Latin Grammy in 2000 and “This Side of Paradise,” which won the Latin Grammy in 2001. His latest Grammy-nominated album, “Nouveau Latino” celebrates the Salsa scene in New York City at its prime.

Torres’ contribution to society extends far beyond his award-winning hit songs. In 2010, Nestor partnered with the Lyric Theatre to create the “Nestor Torres Initiative,” a week-long educational program designed to teach Martin County students and teachers about music. Nestor visited over five local schools in the county and led master classes for the top high school musicians in the area. The week culminated with a public concert at the Lyric Theatre featuring selected students who worked with Nestor during the week.

Now, Nestor Torres is traveling the world, performing at venues from Miami to Paris. Recently, Nestor was the keynote speaker for the 2012 Music, Power, and Liberty Conference. His return to the Lyric is highly anticipated as Nestor’s performances are always highly unique and powerful.