The Silver Lake News
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES. Louie Cruz Beltran celebrated Cinco de Mayo at Santee High School, combining musical performances with motivational talks (stemming from his musical background and work experience) about working hard in school, socializing & networking, and following your dreams. The morning kicked-off with greetings and media coverage from KTLA Morning News, Gayle Anderson, KABC and FOX news.
Approximately 900 inner-city students rose to their feet in the Santee High Education Complex Theater Monday morning, and numbers swarmed the stage to dance to the electric sounds of Louie Cruz Beltran and His Latin Jazz Ensemble.
Growing up in a family of twelve, Louie was surrounded by strong mentors, all of whom helped shape his love and appreciation for the arts. They taught him to live life day by day and to make positive choices in life, building a solid foundation for his life’s goals and aspirations.
"Life is like a puzzle," says Louie to the student audience, "in order to successfully achieve your vision, you have to carefully place all the pieces together, on by one. Missing pieces will hinder you from accomplishing those dreams and visions."
Louie recently celebrated the release of his new album, “Live at the Ford,” and received a special honor and proclamation from the City of Los Angeles for his artistic and music education contributions to the city, presented by City Councilman Tom La Bonge. His efforts with various schools city-wide have also been recognized by Police Chief Bratton, RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner cities) and the Hola Foundation.
Louie Cruz Beltran and His Latin Jazz Ensemble perform a sizzling blend of Brazilian style and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Louie’s abilty to adapt his sound has allowed him to tour internationally and to work in many different styles with such great performers as Pete Escovedo, Starrfire and The Sylvers.
For more information on Louie Cruz Beltran Latin Jazz Ensemble, please visit www.louiecruzbeltran.com.
