I took drum lessons with Francis for 8 years, from 2009 to 2017. I still remember the very first compliment I ever gave the guy who would become my drum instructor, when I first saw him play live: “Francis, your drumming is of international qualityl!” Obviously I was comparing him to the metal masters that are acknowledged worldwide, but after years analyzing carefully this compliment, I now realize that his drumming actually transcends this simple comparison with the drummers we’ve been adoring for decades. The compliment should have been: “Your playing is for everyone to admire, anywhere!”. I cannot think of anything more just and deserving: my teacher having his spotlight in the land of the music masters, to shine with his music! Not to mention that Francis is a terrific and good-hearted person. Francis, you rock!
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Rafael Salazar