About Me
Born and raised in the Bronx, Ralph Lopez, Jr. grew up listening to the great sounds of Tito Puente. His parents introduced Tito Puente's music to him at an early age and he instantly gravitated to the sounds of the master. His parents fanned the fires when they purchased a set of LP bongos when Ralph was a tender five years of age.As he grew older, it became evident to Ralph that his musical passion was no passing phase. At age 12, he enrolled in The Point School of Music to study basic percussion. At The Point, he seemed a natural and easily replicated any rhythmic pattern presented to him.Shortly after, Ralph began playing timbales, congas, and bongos with local groups in venues throughout New York City. At the age of 16, he enrolled at Boys Harbor Conservatory for the Performing Arts where he studied music theory. At age 17, he joined Dominic's Orchestra and shortly after became Dominic's musical director.Ralph Lopez Jr. is currently performing with a diverse range of artists. He performs across the country with the likes of The Copa Cabana Band, Johnny Rivera, Michael Stuart, Frankie Negron, Andy Montanez, Los Hermanos Lebron, Chino Nunez and Friends, Brenda K Starr and many more.When asked to reveal a focus, Ralph stated: "I would like to keep the percussion tradition alive. As generations pass, I would like to continue to share my knowledge with future generations. A rhythm or pattern can be taught and learned, but it takes heart and dedication to make it sound right." Perhaps this will be Ralph Lopez Jr's legacy in the years to come, as he contributes the enhancement of Hispanic culture: "making it sound right".Ralph gives special thanks to his musical mentors and inspirational figures, including Tito Puente, Giovani Hidalgo, Eddie Montalvo, Pablo "Chino" Nunez, Victor Rendon, Angel Rodriguez, Harry Adorno and his mentor and good friend Willie Romero."I, Ralph Lopez Jr, am greatly thankful for having the opportunity to perform with todays most notable salsa/pop artists along with some of the best musicians, songwriters, and singers in the world. It is my intent to keep our music tradition alive and strong. Welcome to my profile and ENJOY!"
For more on Ralph Lopez Jr, visit lpmusic.com or http://www.lpmusic.com/Pros_That_Play_LP/Players_Roster/lope
z_r.html.
