From orchestral double bass to Spyro Gyra, Randy Crawford and Diane Schuur, virtuoso doubler shares his story
Exclusive video interview with FBPO’s Jon Liebman
March 7, 2016
A native of New York City, Roberto Vally grew up being exposed to many styles of music, including classical, jazz, Latin, funk, rock, pop, hip-hop and soul. His immersion into music throughout his school years led him to New York’s legendary High School of Performing Arts (made famous in the 1980 film Fame), after which he attended the Julliard School, where he was mentored by noted double bass professor Homer Mensch.
In addition to being an accomplished classical bassist, Roberto has powerful funk/R&B chops, affording him the opportunity to tour with a wide variety of musical acts throughout the world.
Roberto has toured with Spyro Gyra, Randy Crawford and Michael Franks in addition to having performed and/or recorded with Bobby Caldwell, George Benson, David Benoit, Christopher Cross, Boz Scaggs, Arturo Sandoval, Jeffrey Osborne, Al Jarreau, Richard Elliot and many others. He has also written or co-written songs that have been recorded and performed by Bob James, Kirk Whalum, Boney James, Patti Austin, Ric Braun and several others. Roberto currently lives in California and is bassist and musical director for Diane Schuur.
FBPO’s Jon Liebman caught up with Roberto at the 2016 winter NAMM show.
Watch our interview with Roberto!
