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Ivan Albarran is a young, up and coming Jazz trumpeter and music educator. Ivan began his musical training at age 10. He was instructed in classical music, while also playing with a Concert Band. His family relocated to the Bay Area two years later. Upon arriving in Oakland, he was introduced to Jazz through an after school program, at Elmhurst Middle School under the direction of Helena Jack. With Elmhurst Jazz Band he participated in Anaheim's Heritage Festival, as well as Jazz on the Hill, along with many other local festivals, and showcases. For highschool he attended Oakland School for the Arts. At OSA he got much exposure to many great Bay Area artist, not to mention access to many great instructors. At OSA he studied Classical and Jazz Theory and History, under Cava Menzies. Trumpet section instruction from Khalil Shaheed and Joel Berhman, who also taught Trumpet Jazz Studies.
Ivan has always been a huge admirer of all music ranging from Tango, Salsa, Samba, Cumbia, Jazz, Rock, Opera, to Flamenco and most Eastern Folk Music. He has always had much respect for all other instruments, but is most interested in Piano, Guitar, and all sorts of percussion. At OSA he would get the chance, under Krista Robertson, to explore the piano and gain some insight and ability on the instrument. Outside of school Ivan has maintained a busy and always exploring schedule. He formed part of Oaktown Jazz Workshops for two years, and regularly featured with a S.O.T.A. formed latin ensemble called "Son Cultura". He recorded a live session with "The Bay Area Christian Connection" titled "1st Annual Workshop and Concert". Got an opportunity to participate in Grammy's in the School program, there he met, was instructed, and later got to jam with Bill Ortiz. He also had the great honor and pleasure of meeting and extensively conversing with a living legend, Arturo Sandoval. Ivan has been teaching since his first year of highschool. He always maintained a healthy relationship with Helena Jack which allowed him to continue to work with the students of Elmhurst Music Program. Ivan is now continuing his eternal pursuit of enlightenment through music.