Main Photo Gallery

Demetrios Kastaris, Triborough Bridge (RFK Bridge) Astoria, Queens, New York, (Astoria Park), photo by Kathryn Kastaris, July, 1996.

Conjunto Katharí, Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, New York. On stage: left to right: pianist Joel Weiskopf, trombonist Demetrios Kastaris, percussionist Oreste Abrantes, below stage: bouzouki players, left, Theofilos Katechis, right, Kostas Psarros, November 2, 1013, photo by Norm Harris.

Debut Concert of Katharí, Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, top left: Ray Campos, middle: Demetrios Kastaris, Tenor Saxophone: Melvin Smith, violin: Robert Thomas, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios praising God in a Conjunto Katharí concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens, New York. Saturday, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Prayer time! The members of Conjunto Katharí join forces with the members of the Latin Jazz Coalition for the Conjunto Katharí debut concert at Flushing Town Hall in Flushing Queens, New York. The two orchestras unite in the dressing room before the show for prayer led by Demetrios Kastaris. December 10, 2010. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Jotan Afanador. While only 21 years of age, son of a Christian pastor Jotan won the title of world’s fastest drummer in the Guinness Book of World Records, performing an amazing 1123 single strokes in only 60 seconds! Playing here with Demetrios in the Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing New York, December 17, 2004, photo credit Jerry Lacay.

Miguel Nuñez (right) prays for Demetrios Kastaris (left) and his future music ministry during Demetrios’s retirement party. The event was a celebration of Demetrios completing 32 years as a music teacher with the New York City Public Schools. Photo taken by Rip Kastaris on the Lucille Vessel in Manhattan, New York, East River. June 15, 2014.

Trombones FIRE IT UP! Bottom row, left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, Charley Garcia, Rafi Malkiel, Matthew McDonald, Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Publicity poster used to advertize Demetrios Kastaris's teaching engagement in Havana Cuba in September of 2016 at Cuba's first ever Summit of Trombonists (Cumbre de Trombonistas). 42 trombonists attended.

Performing with Latin Music Legend Tito Puente at the Architects and Designer’s Building, February 2000. Photo Credit: Ito Rodriguez.

Award from Premios Latinos Fama from Telemundo/ Univisión for Musical Trajectory in Salsa (Trayectoria Musical en Salsa). February 23, 2017. Mounted in the Spanish Harlem Salsa Museum March, 2024.

The Premios Latinos Fama Award from Telemundo/ Univisión awarded to Demetrios Kastaris, February 23, 2017.

The late legendary Profesor Antonio Leal Rodríguez at his home in Old Havana (La Habana Vieja). Rodríguez was the last trombonist with the legendary Benny Moré Orchestra. Photo taken November 2018.

The Latin-Jazz Coalition CD Poster from July, 2000. Mounted in the Spanish Harlem Salsa Museum March, 2024.

Rehearsing with the legendary group Los Muñequitos de Matanzas in their rehearsal space in Matanzas Cuba. November 2018.

With Los Muñequitos de Matanzas, Matanzas Cuba. November 2018.

Teaching at the Cuba’s very first Summit of Trombonists (Cumbre de Trombonistas) at the Rehearsal Hall of the National Concert Band (El Local de Ensayos de la Banda Nacional). Forty-two trombonists participated. September 3, 2016. Havana Cuba.

Cumbre de Trombonistas, September 3, 2016. Havana Cuba.

Demetrios Kastaris, “El Griego Rumbero”, in his practice studio at home in Long Island, New York. November 2019, Photo credit: Jerry Lacay.

Photo taken in Havana Cuba, September 2016. Photo credit: Demetrios

Ready to accompany 16 time Grammy Award Winner Paquito D’Rivera on the piano at his home in New Jersey on a Son Montuno, November 2019. Photo credit: Jerry Lacay.

Interviewing maestro Paquito D’Rivera in his home in New Jersey. November 2019. Photo Credit: Jerry Lacay.

Saying goodbye to D’Rivera in his home in New Jersey. November 2019. Photo Credit: Jerry Lacay.

Bernard “Pretty” Purdie the world’s most recorded drummer with over 4000 recordings. We performed together at the Edward K. Ellington school in South Jamaica, Queens. June 2018.

Sharing the Good News of the Gospel on the street in the small town of La Lisa Cuba not far from Havana. September 2016.

My Ministry Assistant: Giraldo Santiesteban in Havana Cuba. September 2016.

Performing with Master Percussionist Luisito Quintero in Long Island, New York.

Master Teacher of Excellence Award presented to Demetrios Kastaris. Steinway I.S. 141Q, Astoria Queens, January 2005.

Left trumpeter/ multi-instrumentalist/ composer/ vocalist David Rios (leader of Project Psalm 105 in California with concerts in Los Angeles and other parts of California), Right Demetrios. Photo taken in San Juan Bautista California, September 2024.

Trombones FIRE IT UP! Bottom row, left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, Charley Garcia, Rafi Malkiel, Matthew McDonald, Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Performing at Flushing Town Hall in Queens, New York for the opening of the exhibition: Latin Jazz: La Combinación Perfecta. April 9, 2003. Left to right, Demetrios, claves, trombone and shekeres, Samuel Torres, conga drums, Angel Rodriguez, bongos, cowbell and shekeres, Solo Rodriguez, bass. Photo credit: Jerry Lacay.

Prayer time! Left to right: Demetrios Kastaris, Gospel Singer Susan Quintyne, Reverend Pastor Anthony Quintyne, Record Release Concert, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios Kastaris, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, November 2, 2013, Photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios praises the LORD with a blast of the Biblical Jewish shofar, Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios adds authentic Afro-Cuban flavor by playing the typical “Guagua” on a Rumba Guaguancó at the Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris. The Guagua (Guadua Bambú in Spanish) that Demetrios brought back from a rain forest in Colombia South America. He took it home and customized it.

Katharí Debut Concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios performs melodies on an extra large conch shell. Percussionist, Angel Rodriguez on the right. Kyklos, Circle of Glory Event “An Evening of Olympic Celebration” at the Newington-Cropsey Foundation, Olympic Art Work of Euripides Kastaris, Hastings on Hudson, New York, March 20, 2004.

Demetrios performs on a medium sized conch shell. Kyklos, Circle of Glory Event “An Evening of Olympic Celebration” at the Newington-Cropsey Foundation, Olympic Art Work of Euripides Kastaris, Hastings on Hudson, New York, March 20, 2004.

Master singer (Sonero) Sammy Navarro sings at the Conjunto Katharí debut concert, Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Gospel singer Susan Quintyne captivates the audience with her vocal talents. Conjunto Katharí CD release concert, Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris. Susan sang solos on numerous CD recordings that won six Grammy Awards for the world famous Brooklyn Tabernacle.

Masterful Gospel Singer, Dawn Tallman at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Jazz legend, trombonist and conch shell player, Steve Turre of the Saturday Night Live Band. Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Classical trombone virtuoso Achilles Liarmakopoulos, member of the legendary Canadian Brass and Pink Martini.

Achilles Liarmakopoulos records “Te Exaltamos con Trombones” with Demetrios Kastaris in Denville, New Jersey, photo by Demetrios Kastaris.

Achilles Liarmakopoulos, trombonist of the legendary Canadian Brass, posing with Demetrios Kastaris just after Achilles performed a Canadian Brass Concert at Lincoln Center (New York). December, 2015

Demetrios Kastaris conducts, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios Kastaris conducts, (Steve Turre on right) Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios Kastaris reviews music with Steve Turre just before the concert, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios Kastaris plays with Steve Turre, top row, flautist Connie Grossman, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Gifted Gospel singer Susan Quintyne, Conjunto Katharí CD release concert, Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Steve Turre, master trombonist and conch shell player, debut concert of Katharí at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Steve Turre playing two conch shells simultaneously and in harmony, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Charismatic singer Dawn Tallman builds up the energy! Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Pete McGuinness, multi-Grammy Nominee, Jazz Trombone Virtuoso, Lead player, Master Composer/Arranger, and Professor of Jazz Studies at William Patterson University in New Jersey.

Pete McGuinness receives Award for Outstanding Musicianship for his marvelous arrangements and trombone playing from Demetrios Kastaris. Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Gospel Singer Susan Quintyne sings an aspiring solo alongside master percussionist Oreste Abrantes on the right. Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, Photo by Norm Harris.

Christian Salsa meets Gospel Music. Singer Sammy Navarro on left. Singer Dawn Tallman on the right. Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Front three musicians, left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, trombone, Yiannis Economides, trumpeter from Thessaloniki, Greece, Melvin Smith, tenor saxophone. Back row, left to right, Ray Campos, bass trombone, Connie Grossman, flute, Robert Thomas, violin. Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Left: Chico Alvarez (Chico Ernesto Alvarez Peraza), Afro-Cuban genre lead singer, radio show host, writer, music historian, music critic, concert and recording producer, graphic artist. Right, Edy Martinez from Colombia, South America, virtuoso Latin-Jazz pianist, master composer/ arranger, responsible for bringing the music of Afro-Cuban legends Beny Moré and Arsenio Rodriguez back into popularity through his original masterful arrangements. July 29, 2001. Photo by Jerry Lacay at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York.

Debut Concert Promotion Art, Conjunto Katharí, Flushing Town Hall, December 10, 2010. Art done by Euripides Kastaris. Top row, left to right, Steve Turre, Yiannis Economides, Sammy Navarro, Theofilos Katechis, kneeling behind conga drums, Demetrios Kastaris.

Left: Master percussionist, Oreste Abrantes, right Demetrios Kastaris, Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, Photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios Kastaris collaborates with Achilles Liarmakopoulos while recording “Te Exaltamos con Trombones” in Denville, New Jersey.

Trombones ROAR unto Glory! Left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, Charley Garcia, Rafi Malkiel, Matthew McDonald, far right on bass trombone: James Rogers. Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, Photo by Norm Harris.

Concert Time at the Stathakion Cultural Center in Astoria, Queens, New York. November 4, 2007.

Concert Time 2! Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios cooling off at home in Queens, New York, photo by Kathryn Kastaris.

Concert Conch Shells, Conjunto Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Concert Conch Shells, Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Left, Demetrios, right: Jazz, Gospel pianist/ arranger Joel Weiskopf, formerly pianist of the world famous Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Left, Demetrios, right Joel Weiskopf, Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Pianist/ arranger, Joel Weiskopf sits at the grand piano,Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Master recording engineer John Diaz in his studio in Denville, New Jersey, photo by Demetrios Kastaris. John’s immense skills in tuning, arranging, creating chorus melodies and lyrics, producing, and much more have helped us succeed! Thanks so much John! God bless you!

Bottom row, left to right, Noah Bless, Demetrios Kastaris, Steve Turre, top row: Connie Grossman, Alí Bello, Alfredo de la Fé. Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing New York, December 17, 2004, photo credit Jerry Lacay.

Kostas Psarros, bouzouki player, Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Theofilos Katechis, bouzouki player, Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios with bouzouki players: Theofilos and Kostas, Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Christos Rafalides, vibraphonist, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Christos Rafalides, vibraphonist, Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Conch shell duet, Demetrios, left, Steve Turre, right, at the Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Left to right, trombonists Noah Bless, Steve Turre, Dr. Terry Greene at the Katharí Debut Concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Left to right, bass trombonist Ray Campos, trombonists David Russell and Dr. Terry Greene at the Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Donald Nicks bass guitarist, Connie Grossman, flautist, Conjunto Katharí CD release concert, Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Virtuoso flautist Connie Grossman, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York, June 16, 2003. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

Connie Grossman, Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York, July 29, 2001. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

Theofilos Katechis, bouzouki player, Photo taken by Euripides Kastaris on the Lucille Vessel in Manahattan, New York, East River, June 15, 2014.

Left to right, Demetrios’s wife, Hilda Kastaris, Demetrios, Edy Martinez. (Edy is Hilda’s first cousin). Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York, July 29, 2001. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

John Diaz recording the nylon string guitar parts for “Gracias mi Señor” for the CD “Te Exaltamos con Trombones” in his studio in Denville, New Jersey.

Steve Turre, Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Melvin Smith, tenor saxophone, performing at the Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Front row: Alfredo de la Fé, violin, Christos Rafalides, vibraphone, back row left: Edy Martinez, right, Solo Rodriguez, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Steve Turre, Demetrios Kastaris, Seuffert Bandshell, Forest Park, Woodhaven, Queens, New York. June 26, 1993. Photo by Kathy Izzo.

Demetrios Kastaris and the Latin-Jazz Coalition perform at the Grand Opening of Flushing Town Hall Jazz Cafe before an audience that included jazz legends Jimmy Heath, Clark Terry, Al Grey, Dakota Staton, George Coleman, Donald Byrd, and Ray Barretto, May 20, 1993, Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts, Flushing Queens, New York. Photo credit: Juan Torrico.

Left to right: Demetrios Kastaris, Oreste Abrantes, Sammy Navarro, Ramon Tineo, far right below stage with microphone, Andrew Jackson, Executive Director of the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Left, Noah Bless, right, Demetrios Kastaris, performing at the Katharí Debut Concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Trombonist, Steve Turre poses with Jazz pianist Wesley Reynoso, after the Katharí Debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Wesley Reynoso, Seuffert Bandshell, Forest Park, Woodhaven, Queens, New York. June 16, 2003. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

Bottom row, left to right, Noah Bless, Demetrios Kastaris, Steve Turre, Top row, left to right, Connie Grossman, Alí Bello, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Tito Puente, Demetrios Kastaris, Latin Jazz concert at the Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, September 30, 1997, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Left to right, Freddy Zanella, bass, Demetrios Kastaris, trombone, Tito Puente, timbales, Angel Rodriguez, conga drums, Victor Rendón, cowbell. Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, February 2000, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Mitch Frohman, sax, Demetrios Kastaris, trombone, Tito Puente, timbales, Victor Rendón, güiro, Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, February 2000, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Demetrios, Tito Puente, Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, February 2000, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Left to right: Mitch Frohman, sax, Demetrios Kastaris, trombone, Tito Puente, timbales, Freddy Zanella, bass, Victor Rendón, cowbell, Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, February 2000, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Tito Puente, Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, February 2000, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Demetrios Kastaris, Tito Puente, Angel Rodriguez, Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, February 2000, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Left to right, conga player, Chembo Corniel, pianist and Salsa Legend Larry Harlow (El Judío Maravilloso), trombonist Demetrios Kastaris, percussionist, Angel Rodriguez, November, 2003, La Maganette, Manhattan, New York.

Left, Demetrios Kastaris, right, percussionist, bongo player, manager of the Tito Puente Orchestra, Johnny “Dandy” Rodriguez, recording at Skylight Studio, Belleville, New Jersey. September, 1999.

Left to right, Latin Music Legend: Ray Barretto, Victor Lewis, Steve Gluzband, Demetrios Kastaris, Mario Rodriguez, Flushing Town Hall, Grand Opening Celebration of Flushing Town Hall Jazz Cafe, May 20, 1993. Photo by Juan Torrico.

Ray Barretto, Flushing Town Hall, Grand Opening Celebration of Flushing Town Hall Jazz Cafe, May 20, 1993. Photo by Juan Torrico.

Left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, Tito Puente, Paquito D’Rivera, Village Gate, February 27, 1990. Photo credit: Hilda Kastaris.

Demetrios Kastaris, Willie Colon, Queens Theatre in the Park, October, 2010, photo by Willy Mosquera.

Paquito D’ Rivera, Demetrios Kastaris, New Jersey City University, April 28, 2003, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Radio Personality, Nancy Rodriguez, Latin Music Legend, Multi-Grammy Winner, Pianist, Eddie Palmieri, Demetrios Kastaris, Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York, September 21, 2001, photo credit, Hilda Kastaris.

Demetrios Kastaris, Jimmy Bosch, La Maganette, Manhattan, New York. November 2003.

Caroline Kennedy, Demetrios Kastaris, The John F. Kennedy Junior School. School re-naming ceremony. September 15, 2010, photo credit, Victor Hogans.

Jazz trombone legend, Slide Hampton, Joe Alessi, Principal, trombonist of the New York Philharmonic, Demetrios Kastaris, The Mannes School of Music, Manhattan, New York. January, 2003.

Salsa vocal legend Vitín Avilés at the Point in Hunts Point, South Bronx, New York. February 4, 2000.

Multi-Grammy winner Oscar Hernandez (founder and leader of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra) records with Demetrios Kastaris at Skylight Studio, Bellville, New Jersey. July 1999.

Demetrios performs the shofar for a Messianic Jewish recording, Tiki Studios, Long Island, New York. September, 2002.

Left to right, Pete McGuinness, Claudio Roditi, Demetrios Kastaris, Skylight Studios, Belleville, New Jersey. July, 1999, photo credit, Hilda Kastaris.

Dave Valentin displays his Grammy Award, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York. June 16, 2003, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Dave Valentin, Demetrios Kastaris, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York. June 16, 2003, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Dave Valentin, Alfredo de la Fé, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York. June 16, 2003, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios Kastaris, Dave Valentin, recording at Skylight Studio, Bellville, New Jersey. July 1999.

Alfredo de la Fé, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Left to right, pianist and Salsa Legend, Larry Harlow (El Judío Maravilloso), of the Fania All Stars fame, violinist Alfredo de la Fé, bassist Guillermo Edghill, trombonist Demetrios Kastaris, Birdland Jazz Club, Latin Cool Records CD launching Concert, December 2, 2002, (photo credit Louis Laffitte).

Larry Harlow (El Judío Maravilloso), Alfredo de la Fé, Guillermo Edghill, Demetrios Kastaris. Birdland Jazz Club, New York City, Latin Cool Records CD launching Concert, December 2, 2002, (photo credit Louis Laffitte).

Alfredo de la Fé - violin, Sam Martinez - Puerto Rican Cuatro, Demetrios Kastaris - cow bell, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, Queens, New York, December 15, 2006.

Steve Turre, Alfredo de la Fé, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios Kastaris, Claudio Roditi, Jazz trumpet and flugelhorn virtuoso, Skylight Studio, Belleville, New Jersey. July, 1999, photo credit, Hilda Kastaris.

Claudio Roditi, Jazz trumpet and flugelhorn virtuoso, Skylight Studio, Belleville, New Jersey. July, 1999, photo credit, Hilda Kastaris.

Legendary Jazz Trombonist, Slide Hampton, Mannes College of Music, January, 2003.

Left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, Tito Puente, pianist Dr. William Rodriguez, Founder and original Principal of the Celia Cruz School of Music in the Bronx, New York, concert held at the Architect’s and Designer’s Building, Manhattan, New York, September 30, 1997, photo by Ito Rodriguez.

Legendary Jazz Trombonist, Slide Hampton, Mannes College of Music, January, 2003.

Left Jazz Great, Ray Vega on the Flugelhorn, on the right master chékere player Vivian Warfield, Stathakion Cultural Center, Astoria, Queens, New York, November 4, 2007.

Demetrios Kastaris, Andrew Jackson, Executive Director displaying debut release “Te Exaltamos Con Trombones”, Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert, Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Jotan Afanador, drum set, Angel Rodriguez, conga drums, Mike Zarirfis, alto saxophone, Stathakion Cultural Center, Astoria, Queens, New York, November 4, 2007.

Demetrios Kastaris holds up the Greek flag with Yiannis Economides, at the Katharí debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Concert producer, Clyde Bullard, Katharí debut concert at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios Kastaris plays a large conch shell, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York, June 16, 2003. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York.

Demetrios Kastaris and trombone virtuoso Achilles Liarmakopoulos, pause for a photo while recording “Te Exaltamos con Trombones” in Denville, New Jersey. July, 2012. Photo credit, Hilda Kastaris.

Noro (Luis Antonio) Bastidas, professional pianist, concert timpanist, oboist, guitarist, singer in Santa Fé de Bogotá, Colombia, South America. (Noro Bastidas is the father in law of Demetrios Kastaris).

Demetrios plays the Shofar, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York, June 16, 2003, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Charley Garcia wails on his trombone solo! Conjunto Katharí, Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, New York, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Master percussionist Angel Rodriguez performs on the Afro-Cuban shékere with the Latin Jazz Coalition, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, Queens, New York, December 15, 2006.

Demetrios plays the typical “Guagua” (Guadua Bambú in Spanish) on an Afro-Cuban Rumba Guaguancó at the Conjunto Katharí Record Release Concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona Queens, New York, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Bongo and Cowbell player, Ramon Tineo, debut concert of Katharí, Flushing Town Hall, Flushing Queens, New York, December 10, 2010, photo by Norm Harris.

The Latin Jazz Coalition in a very special concert at the Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven Queens, New York, June 26, 1993. Left to right top row: Victor Lewis, Steve Gluzband, Willie Rodriguez, Hiram Remón, Mario Rodriguez, Bottom row: Victor Rendón, Angel Rodriguez, Steve Turre, Demetrios Kastaris, Claudio Roditi. (photo credit Kathy Izzo)

Willy Mosquera, concert producer, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Demetrios Kastaris performs at “Latin Jazz, la Combinación Perfecta”, Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York, April 9, 2003. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

Sam Martinez near his home in Manhattan, playing the nylon string guitar. June, 2014, photo by Demetrios Kastaris.

Sam Martinez at a park near his home in Manhattan holding a Puerto Rican Cuatro and a nylon string guitar. June 2014, photo by Demetrios Kastaris.

Sam Martinez at a park near his home in Manhattan playing the Puerto Rican Cuatro. June 2014, photo by Demetrios Kastaris.

Demetrios Kastaris with master recording engineer John Diaz at Skylight Studio, Belleville, New Jersey, July, 1999.

Demetrios Kastaris performing at Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York, at Latin Jazz, la Combinación Perfecta. April 9, 2003. Photo by Jerry Lacay.

Maestro Edy Martinez in his home in Queens, New York, March, 1990, photo by Demetrios Kastaris.

Bottom row, left to right, Demetrios Kastaris, Steve Turre, Noah Bless, Top row, left to right, Alí Bello, Alfredo de la Fé, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Vicki Solá on air radio host of “Que Viva La Música” at WFDU 89.1 FM in Teaneck, New Jersey. Vicki has been a GIGANTIC supporter of our music for many years. Thank you Vicki!

Demetrios Kastaris being interviewed by Vicki Solá on the air on her show: “Que Viva La Música” at WFDU 89.1 FM in Teaneck, New Jersey. Photo credit, Bobby Marin.

Christos Rafalides, Jazz and Latin virtuoso vibraphonist, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Christos Rafalides vibraphonist, Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay. (Bass player in background is Solo Rodriguez).

Singer Sammy Navarro near his home in Queens, New York, September, 2010, photo by Demetrios Kastaris.

Demetrios directs the Latin-Jazz Coalition. Left to right: Edy Martinez, Solo Rodriguez, Christos Rafalides, Jotan Afanador, Hiram Remón, Jerome Goldschmidt, Connie Grossman, Noah Bless, Alí Bello, Demetrios Kastaris. Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, New York, December 17, 2004, photo by Jerry Lacay.

Orquesta Unidad (Christian Salsa) led by conguero Gary Rosario, combines forces with the Latin Jazz Coalition led by Demetrios Kastaris, and guest violinist Alfredo de la Fé, at the Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, Queens, New York. December 16, 2006.

Orquesta Unidad led by conguero Gary Rosario combines forces with the Latin Jazz Coalition led by Demetrios Kastaris and special guest Alfredo de la Fé, at the Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, Queens, New York, December 16, 2006.

Orquesta Unidad combines with the Latin Jazz Coalition and guest Alfredo de la Fé, at the Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing, Queens, New York. December 16, 2006.

Kenny Growhowski, drummer extraordinare, Conjunto Katharí record release concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Kenny Growhowski, drummer extraordinare, Conjunto Katharí record release concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Left to right Demetrios Kastaris, Oreste Abrantes, Donald Nicks, Christos Rafalides, Ramon Tineo, Conjunto Katharí record release concert at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in Corona, Queens, New York. November 2, 2013, photo by Norm Harris.

Demetrios Kastaris just before performing at York College, Queens, New York, March 1990, photo by Glenn Reinhart.

Demetrios performs in a Jazz recital at New York University with tenor saxophonist Dan Nigro in 1981. Photo Credit: Rip Kastaris.

Sunnyside Festival, left, Demetrios Kastaris, trombone and bass trombone, right Jazz master Frank Basile, tenor saxophone and flute. One of the first concerts of the Latin Jazz Coalition. September 1987. Photo credit Don Wittekind.

Latin Jazz concert at McDonald Park, Forest Hills Queens New York. Left to right: Al Torrente trumpet and flugelhorn, Eddie Rodriguez congas, Donald Nicks bass, Demetrios Kastaris trombone, Sam Barrios piano. Photo credit: Hilda Kastaris.

Demetrios Kastaris on a break, while performing in one of the seven bands at the Concord Resort Hotel in the Catskill Mountains in up-state, New York, July 1984.

The trend setting, world famous Stan Kenton Jazz Orchestra trombone section in 1976. Dick Shearer, lead trombonist in the middle.

Billy Graham’s ministry team in 1953, bottom left, George Beverly Shea, Billy Graham, trombonist: Cliff Barrows, top row left, Grady Wilson, Paul Mickelson, Tedd Smith, Lorne Sanny. (I thought that I invented praising the Lord with trombones until I saw this picture taken almost 60 years before I founded Conjunto Katharí).

Trombonist, Cliff Barrows, Music and Programming Director of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association since 1949.

The ancient sackbut of the Renaissance and Baroque eras, forefather of the trombone.

The Latin Jazz Coalition in concert at Rainey Park in Astoria, Queens, New York. Left to right: Hiram Remón - vocals, Johnny Ubiera - drums, Demetrios Kastaris - trombone, Marc Saunders - congas, Donald Nicks - bass, Walter White - trumpet, Sam Barrios - piano, June 1989. Photo credit: Hilda Kastaris.

Left, Demetrios Kastaris, right Tito Puente, February 27, 1990.

Left, Demetrios Kastaris, right, Steve Turre, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York, June 26, 1993, photo credit Kathy Izzo.

Demetrios Kastaris collaborates with maestro Edy Martinez. Queens, New York, March 1990.

Demetrios recording in Long Island

Left to right, Guillermo Edghill, Larry Harlow, (El Judío Maravilloso), Alfredo de la Fé , Demetrios Kastaris. Birdland Jazz Club, New York City, Latin Cool Records CD launching Concert, December 2, 2002, (photo credit Louis Laffitte).

Trombonists Steve Turre and Demetrios Kastaris in concert, Seuffert Bandshell, Woodhaven, Queens, New York, June 26, 1993, photo credit Kathy Izzo.

Flushing Town Hall. Left to right, Executive Director Jo-Ann Jones, On Air Radio Host Louis Laffitte, Concert Producer Clyde Bullard, Demetrios Kastaris. Photo credit, Jerry Lacay.

Left, Demetrios Kastaris, right: Larry Harlow (El Judío Maravilloso) of Fania All Stars fame. Latin Cool Records CD launching Concert, December 2, 2002, Birdland Jazz Club, New York City. (photo credit Louis Laffitte).

Left, Demetrios Kastaris, right Latin music legend, Grammy award winner, conguero, Ray Barretto. Flushing Town Hall, Flushing, Queens, New York. Opening night inauguration of Flushing Town Hall Jazz Cafe. May 20, 1993, Photo credit: Juan Torrico.

Concert at the Museum of Natural History in Manhattan, New York. Left to right Connie Grossman - flute, Freddy Zanella - bass, Demetrios Kastaris - trombone, Angel Rodriguez - congas, John Walsh - trumpet.

Mike Zarifis

Mike Zarifis.

Leftheris Bournias

Johnny "Dandy" Rodriguez Jr., musical director of the Tito Puente Orchestra, bongo player, güiro player, percussionist. Recording güiro parts for Trombón con Sazón. Skylight Recording Studios, Belleville New Jersey, September 1999. Photo credit: Demetrios Kastaris.

Left to right, Demetrios, Sammy Navarro (Christian Salsa singer), Franky Guadalupe (leader of Franky N" Friends), Christian Salsa singer David Angel.

Left, Demetrios Kastaris, right, Latin music legend, (timbalero) Tito Puente. Architects and Designer’s Building, February 2000, photo credit: Ito Rodriguez

Left to right Demetrios Kastaris, Latin music legend, (timbalero) Tito Puente, Victor Rendón Architects and Designer’s Building, February 2000, photo credit: Ito Rodriguez.

Left to right: Hiram Remón, Claudio Roditi, Steve Gluzband, Demetrios Kastaris, Steve Turre. Seuffert Bandshell, Forest Park, Woodhaven, Queens, New York. June 26, 1993. Photo credit: Kathy Izzo.

Left to right: Jim Pugh, John Marcellus, (Professor of Trombone at the Eastman School of Music), Demetrios Kastaris.

Top Row: Hiram Remón, Angel Rodriguez, Demetrios Kastaris, multi-Grammy Award winner, pianist, Oscar Hernández (leader of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra), Victor Rendón, Pete McGuinness. Bottom row: Alí Bello, Jerome Goldschmidt, Freddy Zanella.

Demetrios Kastaris, Puerto Rico. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Left to right: Bam Bam Rodriquez – string bass, Alex Garcia – drum set, Ramon Tineo – bongos, performing with Conjunto Katharí at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens, New York, Saturday, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Bongo drum player Ramon Tineo performing with Conjunto Katharí at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center Saturday, Corona, Queens New York, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Bongo drum player Ramon Tineo performing with Conjunto Katharí at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens, New York, Saturday, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Wesley Reynoso plays the piano with Conjunto Katharí at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, Saturday, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Classical virtuoso trombonist Achilles Liarmakopoulos plays a solo with Conjunto Katharí at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, Saturday, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Conjunto Katharí performs at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, Saturday, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Left to right, Wesley Reynoso - piano, Oreste Abrantes - congas, Ramon Tineo - bongos, Bam Bam Rodriguez – bass performing with Conjunto Katharí at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center, Corona, Queens New York, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

Conjunto Katharí performs at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center Saturday, Corona, Queens, New York, October 18, 2015. Photo credit: Norm Harris.

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord”. Psalm 150, Verse 6.

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord”. Psalm 150, Verse 6

“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord”. Psalm 150, Verse 6.

Demetrios Kastaris earned his Masters degree in Jazz Performance on the trombone at the Manhattan School of Music in May of 1987.