The great Panamanian trumpet virtuoso, Vitin (Victor) Paz joined the ancestors on April 3, 2021. Vitin was/is one of the greatest trumpeters in Latin music. His amazing work spanned across decades. from his work with the Tito Rodriguez Orchestra to his work with the Fania All Stars, Tito Puente, Celia Cruz and countless others as well as his work with non latin musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Sinatra and Smokey Robinson, Victor is truly legendary.

Victor Nicholas Paz Solanilla was born in Panama City, Panama on August 30, 1932. His father was also a trumpeter and director of a band. His mother was a teacher who also sang. His sister also became an accomplished vocalist. Victor began trumpet lessons at the age of 9. At 13 he made his professional debut alongside his father, in the band his father directed. He worked with the band for 6 years. In 1963, Tito Rodriguez went to Caracas, Venezuela to perform where he met Victor and was very impressed. Rodriguez made an outstanding offer, Victor would not only become his lead trumpet but also musical director. They went on to become a perfect combination, as his arrangements suited Rodriguez’s voice and band perfectly. Eddie Palmieri, who was part of The Tito Rodriguez Orch. at the time Paz joined says “he transformed it into something that became a force of nature.”

Victor’s career took off He even recorded music for the Dick Cavett Show from 1969-1975. His schedual was completely full, in between performances, the TV show and recording on albums. Whenever someone needed a great trumpet for an album or performance, they called Victor. After 35 years in New York, Victor went back to Panama where he worked at the university of Panama, led a band and taught students.

His life motto was, “study and truth are the key to tranquility and true happiness”.

Victor joined the ancestors on April 2, 2021 at the age of 89. His legacy is in his music and we must always remember him. His contributions to our music and culture are truly unforgettable and momentous.

References:

Sanabria, Bobby. “Victor Paz, Soaring Trumpeter Who Took the Lead in Latin Music and Beyond, Dies at 89.” WBGO, 7 Apr. 2021, www.wbgo.org/music/2021-04-07/victor-paz-soaring-trumpeter-who-took-the-lead-in-latin-music-and-beyond-dies-at-89.

Gomez, Albert. “Vitín Paz Passes Away: Farewell to the Panamanian Who Became the Trumpet of the Americas.” AL DÍA News, 6 Apr. 2021, aldianews.com/articles/culture/music/vitin-paz-passes-away-farewell-panamanian-who-became-trumpet-americas/63849.

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