by Isaac » Sat May 03, 2014 8:53 am
Chuck worked with such dedication and focus as a drum educator. Latin drumset was his favourite, although he
was also great at Funk, Jazz, Rock and Brasilian drumset.
He was an early bridge for the rest of us to learn about Cuban percussion and was instrumental in getting
Changuito's Timbale book published.
I remember once calling him when he still lived in Florida. He had Changuito staying with him as a guest while they worked
on Changuito's book. He said he was "locked" in his practice room for an hour trying to achieve a good
slap on a conga. Changuito told him not to come out till he gets it, meanwhile Changuito is in his house chillin and consuming
Chuck's beer. We had a good laugh.
His last project was about to begin editing phase of a documentary - "Keepers of the Flame".
I hope someone will carry on, finish it and spread Chuck's love of the Cuban drumming traditions, which began
in his youth in Miami. There was no one like him, as strong a communicator for the music
we all love. Chuck knew it was about more than drumming, it was about enhancing the quality of life.
He worked hard, and something tells me Chuck won't be resting in his next phase.
~ Isaac Gutwilik