Hosted by Sparkle TagsJessica Rodriguez, age 19, has been studying timbales for the past three years at Harbor Conservatory. She was a student of Jose Madera , and is currently studying with Johnny Almendra, David Oquendo, Gustavo "Chacho" Schartz Pablo Major, and Mauricio Herrera.In less than three years, Jessica has been invited to perform on stage by some well known musicians such as Ralph Irizarry y Son Criollo, Jimmy Bosch y Orquesta, Johnny Almendra y Los Jovenes Del Barrio, Michael Stuart y Orquesta, Willie Villegas y Orquesta, Ray Sepulveda y Orquesta, Spanish Harlem Orquesta, and Nelson Gonzalez y Orquesta, with special guest Little Johnny Rivero (Pequeño Johnny) and Nicky Marrero, and the Chino Nunez and friends.On October 21, 2003, Jessica was one of seven students awarded a scholarship from the Celia Cruz Foundation. On April 29, 2004 she, along with four students awarded the Celia Cruz scholarship, joined Oscar De' Leon on a live performance at the Latin Billboard Award in Miami Florida."Fully aware of the reality that Latin music is for the most part a male dominated field, Jessica is determined to become a professional percussionist."
