Angela Vera Webster, No Title, No Phone Number Available
Wednesday, August 13, 2014 at 9:10 a.m.
This September during Fiesta Spokane, Spokane's celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Spokanites will be treated to a novel performance that enchantingly blends two genres—Opera Arias and Mariachi Boleros. The talent behind this special performance is José Iñiguez, Opera Tenor, who will be accompanied by pianist Jeremy Neufeld and a classical ensemble (no trumpets), Mariachi Guzman de Pasco.
Iñiguez harbored a childhood dream to become an opera singer, even as he was performing mariachi and chorale music for family and friends as a teen. Born to industrious Mexican immigrants in Mattawa, Washington, he is one of 11 siblings, all of whom hold at least a bachelor's degree. His dreams of Opera made him unique amongst his peers, and not always popular with his father who was skeptical of music as a career. Iñiguez obtained the business degree that would please his father, but his passion for music continued unabated. Bolstered by the support of his siblings, Iñiguez worked hard to make his dream a reality, continuing the formal training he'd started at the Central Washington University School of Music. Specializing in Italian Arias, he now studies under the tutelage of Jerry Hasley, bass-baritone, and proprietor of In Good Voice School of Singing. José Iñiguez's voice has enabled him to tour Europe, perform for dignitaries, and be featured on a CD scheduled for release in 2015.
His unwavering passion for music and education and the dedication to making his dream come true make Iñiguez an inspiration to the Hispanic community. We are delighted that the City of Spokane has been fortunate to draw such a unique talent!
The Encanto Gala is a charity fundraiser that will be held on September 13th, from 5:30-9:00 at the Spokane Convention Center. Proceeds raised will fund the Eastern Washington University Iniguez Family Endowment and the Hispanic Business Professionals Association Foundation. Tickets and sponsorship packages can be purchased here, and details about the Gala can be read about in our sponsorship packet.
