The Valley lost a musical icon just before the new year, when Rafael “Chapito” Chavarria passed away. He was 100 years old.
Chavarria was a bandleader who, in addition to playing clubs, was also a popular draw at weddings. His career stretched from the 1940s until his retirement in the 80s, even though he still played from time to time after that.
For more on Chapito’s life and legacy, we turn to Devon Leal Bridgewater, a trumpet and violin player who played in Chapito’s band.
