Dave Valentin Dies

Dave Valentin, 64, Grammy Award-winning flautist, died in his birthplace of the Bronx precinct of New York City from complications of a stroke and Parkinson’s disease March 8.

Promo Photo – Dave Valentin

Valentin, born from parents who migrated from Puerto Rico to the Bronx, played professionally since he was 10 years old, teaching himself how to play flute to attract a girl as a teenager.

Along with recording albums under his own name, he recorded with acts like Patti Austin, Chris Connor, Lee Ritenour and Nnenna Freelon, according to the New York Times.

He won a Grammy for best Latin jazz album in 2003 for Caribbean Jazz Project’s The Gathering.