THE BAND
FREDY S. Q.
“I was born in the central part of the Andes, called Junin, a small village of valleys and pampas (plateaus), where the climate is very cold. I am from Mestizo parents; my father David Salazar, natural of the Andes (Yauyos) and my mother Visitacion Quispe, natural of the Andes (Tarma).
The first years of my life I spent in the Andes, then my parents took me to the capital; my musical experiences began at the age of 13, and I finished my studies there. During that time, I met and played music with many talented musicians. I had the opportunity to travel to different parts of my country. I owe my interest in music to my father, as he was a musician who played the saxophone, which was the first instrument I was exposed to as a child. That was enough to ignite a passion for music in me.
I participated in many musical events at schools, colleges and universities. I also learned the traditional dances of Peru. I spent many years learning and admiring the culture of my ancestors, the Incas. Because of the political upheaval in my country in the 90’s, I decided to pursue and develop my musical career somewhere else…destiny brought me here to the United States.
My instruments of choice, the ones I carry in my soul, are the wind instruments “Zamponas” and “Quenas”. I also play Guitar, Charango and various percussion. I will continue to play, and thereby preserve the music of my ancestors all my life.”
JUAN S. Q.
I was born in Lima, Peru. This is where I finished all my studies. I’ve enjoyed music since my early childhood; my grandparents were musicians and my father was too. I loved to listen to him play the saxophone at home. I also enjoyed to watch my sister Elvira and my brother Moises perform traditional dances from Peru.
At 12 years old, I learned to play the Zampoña and after that, the Quena. I became anxious to create more music, which drove me to learn the string instruments; Mandolin, Guitar, Violin, Bass and the Charango.
Later, I studied music at The Museum of The Arts in Peru, acquiring more consciousness about the musical culture of my country, it’s value. the responsibility to preserve the many traditional melodies and rhythms of our culture, that would otherwise be lost. Thus, I begun to play in different Andes music groups in my country, and started to participate in music events at schools, colleges, universities and theaters.
At 21 years old, I left Peru to join my brothers spreading the sounds of music of my culture to the world. Above all, I thank God for everything he has giving me. Sincerely, Juan.
DAVID S. Q.
I was born in the mountains of Junin, Peru. This is where I finished my studies. I received from my parents and relatives, the cultural and ancestral musical identity that is so much a part of my life. My instruments of choice are percussion of many varieties, and the drum set. I also enjoy the sweet sounds and beautiful melodies of the Zamponas and Quenas, along with the rhythms of the Bombo (drum). Together, these are the sounds of music from my homeland in the Andes, which makes us proud and fills us with satisfaction.
I have participated in different musical groups, spreading traditional music of the three regions of my country; the coast, mountains and jungle. I have three children. They enjoy music and dance and they are performing at school on the Instruments from our country. I will continue to support their passion for music, as my parents did for me.
I came to California in 1998, and as a professional, I am in the best moments of my life. We take pride in doing all the technical and musical details ourselves, ensuring a successful performance every time. I am grateful to my family, who supports my musical career, and I see them every time I return to Peru. I offer thanks to God for giving me this musical talent. With all my heart, David.