Rafael Méndez

Rafael Méndez was a virtuoso solo trumpet player.

Childhood in Mexico
Rafael Mendez grew up in Mexico as part of a musical family. His father was a string player and all of his siblings played instruments. The family had a band that played for social festivities in his hometown of (insert name here). At the age of five, Mendez began playing cornet on an old, poorly constructed instrument that fell apart in the summer heat because it was held together by beeswax. He advanced quickly on the instrument and became a feature of the band. He even drew the attention of Mexican bandit, Pancho Villa, who requested that young Rafael accompany him on his escapades through Mexico at the age of 10 to provide entertainment. Ensured that their child would be kept out of harm's way, Mendez was allowed to travel with the revolutionary and entertained him with his playing.