Jazz musician Gabriel Espinosa selected to Hall of Fame

by Rachel Bing

Gabriel Espinosa, associate professor of music at Central College, has been unanimously selected by the Greater Des Moines Community Jazz Center to receive the Iowa Jazz Hall of Fame award for his years of leadership in jazz music. Espinosa, who has been teaching at Central for 18 years, said his experience as a professor allows him that leadership. “I received this award because of my students,” Espinosa said. “I thank them very much.”

Espinosa also has experience as a jazz performer, including fifteen years with his band, Ashanti.

On Oct. 19, Espinosa will be inducted into the Iowa Jazz Hall of Fame at the Adventureland Inn in Altoona. This 7 p.m. program is open to members of the public who reserve a ticket by calling 515-276-0777. Advance tickets are $20, and tickets bought at the door are $25. The doors open at 6:00 p.m. in the Parkview Room.