Author Archives: Mel Minter

R.I.P. Bob Gusch

Bob Gusch. Photo by Roger Baker.

On the morning of April 14, we were saddened to learn of the overnight passing of a longtime, integral, and well-loved member of Albuquerque’s musical community, reedman and educator Bob Gusch. Bob played everything from Brazilian choros to straight-ahead jazz and was always up to learn something new. He loved playing music for people, and the feeling was returned. His light will be missed. We send our condolences to Bob’s family, friends, and colleagues.

Below, to introduce him to those who didn’t know him and to enliven the memories of those who did, I’ve posted a profile of Bob that I wrote for Albuquerque The Magazine back in 2018. A memorial will be held on Saturday, May 13, from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m., at Holiday Dance Studio, 5200 Eubank Blvd.

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Julie Christensen and Terry Burns Plumb Love’s Shadows

Terry Burns and Julie Christensen. Photo by Magnus Diehl.

“Our sweetest songs are those that tell of the saddest thought,” said Percy Bysshe Shelley. In support of that sentiment, I offer exhibit one: The Price We Pay for Love, the new release from vocalist Julie Christensen, coproduced with bassist Terry Burns, who also contributes string arrangements and orchestral programming.

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Raven Chacon’s Pulitzer Prize–Winning ‘Voiceless Mass’ Makes Albuquerque Premiere

Raven Chacon. Photo by Don James.

On Saturday morning, March 4, at the Cathedral of St. John, Friends of Cathedral Music, under the artistic direction of Canon Dr. Maxine Thévenot (organist), will present “Encountering the Spirit,” an ambitious program capped by the Albuquerque premiere of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize–winning Voiceless Mass, by composer Raven Chacon, a member of the Diné nation who has deep roots in the metro area.

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Annual Carnaval Celebration Premieres New Album from Frank Leto

Frank Leto

With “Carnaval 2023: Homage” set for February 24 and 25 at the NHCC, Frank and Pilar Leto deliver their 18th production celebrating Carnaval with original music and dance. This year, they are paying tribute to the couples who deeply influenced them, such as their friends Airto Moreira and Flora Purim, and Frank is releasing a studio album, Homage, featuring songs that have graced their Carnaval productions over the years.

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