In memoriam: Dave Valentin: 1952–2017

Latin flutist Dave Valentin died March 8, 2017. Besides being a flutist of the highest skill, Valentin was also a stylistic innovator in the world of Latin flute-playing. Valentin performed and recorded with major Latin jazz and jazz artists, including Tito Puente, Hubert Laws, Herbie Mann, Noel Pointer, Lee Ritenour, Eliane Elias, and others. Many flutists of note who were his closest friends and colleagues had fond memories to share. Connie Grossman studied with Valentin as she entered the Latin music scene.