About CRIS FERRER
Cris Ferrer
Cris Ferrer is a highly accomplished American musician with Cuban roots, holding a College of Arts degree in trumpet and a minor in piano.
Since childhood, many people assumed his nickname was derived because of his eye color. However, the true origin of the nickname "The Cat" or "El Gato" came from musician friends who recognized his remarkable talent and natural ability to effortlessly jump up ( like a cat ) into the extremely high register of the trumpet.
Following his musical graduation, he commenced his professional journey at 18 by assuming the role of the first trumpet player for renowned Cuban vocalist Xiomara Laugart. Subsequently, one year later, Cris spent a decade as the first trumpet of the ensemble 'Trabuco,' headed by Manolito Simonet, where he participated in numerous acclaimed performances and recordings.
Around 2007, when he decided to move for a better opportunity in the USA, it is at this time, that he was called by his two more favorite bands, Irakere conducted by Chucho Valdes, and NG la Banda directed by Jose Luis Cortes (aka el Tosco ) feeling forced to turn them down as everything was already set up to leave the country.
Hence, he decided to relocate to the United States, where he engaged with various local bands, marking a significant milestone with a Grammy nomination for the Best Tropical Latin Album "Bach in Havana" in 2009 and 2010.
Throughout his career, whether playing, recording, or sharing stages, he has collaborated with a myriad of distinguished artists, including Jamey Galway, Joshua Bell, Sting, Chris Botti, Paquito D' Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, Wayne Bergeron, Chucho Valdes, Oscar De Leon, Johnny Rivera, Gilberto S. Rosa, David Murray, among others.
Cris's artistry has been showcased on prestigious television programs such as “The Tonight Show with Conan O’ Brien," featuring a captivating performance alongside classical violinist Joshua Bell, and "Dancing With the Stars," along with appearances on several local TV shows in Miami, FL.
Leveraging also his expertise on alto, tenor, soprano saxophones, and trombone, he has established his music studio through which he has contributed to the recording of complete horn sections for celebrated musicians.
Cris is a passionate musician, artist, and multi-instrumentalist who specializes in recording an entire horn section for your projects.
TEACHING
In his own words: The student-teacher relationship is really important to me. After many years of experience teaching on several instruments, my method is simple. Whether they are children or adults, we must treat them with the same respect, professionalism, and kindness.
It's all about, trust, patience, and connecting.
I listen to my students' concerns carefully, so I can take them to the highest level possible depending on each one capacity and time!
In my opinion, everyone no matter their profession, should try to learn a musical instrument. Besides all the healing benefits it brings to you brain and soul. It’s also a beautiful way to communicate with your heart and others.
Either way, if we are serious about mastering an instrument, never forget that despite the discipline and hours we need to accomplish our goals, we must try to always have fun whether practicing or performing, because music is art and should be treated as such.
Thus, when I'm not performing I teach Trumpet, Saxophone, trombone, and Piano at home or students' houses.
Lessons are available for the following levels: beginner, intermediate, advanced, senior, and graduate student.
All styles and levels are welcome!