What a rare and wonderful opportunity to be in the presence of a music legend. Someone with 100% pure talent who has dedicated his entire life to his craft playing with other music legends such as Paco de Lucía and Camerón de la Isla. Yet what surprised me most about Spanish guitarist Tomatito is just how Andalusian he is, his warm presence and calm demeanor completely belying the fact that he is truly one of the world´s most talented (if not THE most talented) living flamenco artists.
Spending Thursday early afternoon with an intimate group of about 50, Tomatito was a charismatic yet graceful guest at a Universidad de Cádiz Q&A. When he entered the lecture hall with a UCA professor and a few university staff, the only indication of his rock star status was his gorgeously flowing dark head of hair. He assumed absolutely none of the airs you'd expect from someone as successful as he is in the music business -- he was gracious in his reception and sincere and thoughtful in his responses to questions from both the interviewer and members of the audience. He didn't play his guitar, but he did share funny generational anecdotes referring to his young grandson discovering Spanish guitar. And at the end of a little more than an hour, he stayed until every last fan had a chance to shake his hand and take a photo with him if they wanted.
Yeah, I'm a fan.
