Ray Epstein '09

Music major Ray Epstein ’09 expanded his knowledge of Latin music by working with
Jorge Torres, associate professor of music, on The Greenwood Encyclopedia of Latin American Popular Music. The book, edited by Torres, will be published in 2009. Epstein helped organize and edit articles, and worked with Torres to research and write entries himself.

“Around 40 musicologists are contributing to the volume, each writing a handful of articles in their areas of specialization,” says Epstein. “This research obviously increased my knowledge and awareness of Latin music, but also helped me understand better the connections between the musicians and the society around them. I’m a guitarist, and the research has led me to music I would love to play.”

Epstein plans to add a major in philosophy and study abroad at the Amsterdam School of Music. A McKelvy Scholar, he plays with Lafayette’s Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and Percussion Ensemble.