Christmas at the Mission
Santa Fe native Ruben Romero has had a distinguished career as a Spanish guitarist. Inspired by the musical interests of his older brothers, he studied flamenco guitar in Spain and regularly joins other flamenco artists in public performances and private juergas. He has appeared with the Denver Symphony and Minnesota Orchestra and has been the subject of a musical documentary (Simple Treasures) aired nationwide on PBS.   Ruben’s proudest efforts have been as arranger, composer and recording artist. Most of his recordings (over 20 releases to date) are devoted to his original compositions. Underlying his work are traces of the mesmerizing melodies and rhythms that have expressed the joys and sorrows of the gitano soul of his gypsy ancestors.   From the lyricism of his heartfelt Lágrimas para Mi Hermano, written in memory of his late brother, accomplished flamenco dancer Vicente Romero, to the driving energy of his rumbas, Ruben’s engaging style has distinguished him as one of the primary innovators of the Santa Fe Sound.   Recent recordings featuring guest artists such as jazz guitarist Wayne Johnson (Flamenco Flavors) and violinist Robert Notkoff (Las Guitarras de Carmen) showcase Ruben’s gift for collaboration with other accomplished players. And in his most successful CD to date, Flamenco Southwest, he blends his distinctive flamenco style with sounds inspired by the Native American tradition.   Recognition of Ruben’s music has broadened with the worldwide success of Gypsy Passion and Gypsy Soul (Narada) where his work is featured with the "Best of the Best New Flamenco" alongside international stars such as Paco de Lucia, Al Di Meola, Ottmar Liebert, Jesse Cook, Oscar Lopez and Armik. Through these releases, Ruben has helped introduce innovative flamenco guitar sounds to new listeners around the world. Narada has just included Ruben’s Cathedral Bells: Homenaje a Ruby on its newest compilation Obsession.