music
An indelible legacy: Rafael Ithier, founder of the orchestra El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, passed away at 99 years old
Rafael Ithier, founder of the orchestra El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico - Photo: Private Archive
TL;DR
- Rafael Ithier, founder of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, passed away at 99.
- He died from health complications, reportedly pneumonia.
- Musicians like Víctor Manuelle, Olga Tañón, La Sonora Ponceña, and Guayacán orchestra expressed their condolences.
- Ithier is remembered as a founder, director, arranger, and pianist of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico.
- He is also recognized as a visionary entrepreneur and businessman in salsa.
- His contributions are seen as having marked a before and after in music, elevating Puerto Rican salsa worldwide.
- El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico recently participated in Banco Popular de Puerto Rico's Christmas special 'Estampas de mi tierra'.