Louie Gombar is an accomplished musician on Guam known for his playing of the vibes (vibraharp). Gombar started out as a musician at the young age of twelve using bottles filled with water and playing them as if they were the vibes. Soon after, Gombar began to get exposure to Guam’s music scene.
Jose Naputi Gumabon, Sr. (1904 – 1968) was musically and artistically gifted. He formed a stringed orchestra with his sons and close friends to play at parties, weddings, christenings, and other functions. Although Gumabon and his musician sons have since passed away, their memories live on through their children, relatives and fellow musicians.
Guitarist Joaquin “Ding” Palomo (1923 – 1997) was a well-known and well-accomplished musician. Although he was known by his peers for playing rhythm guitar, he also played lead guitar. Palomo was an educator by profession, serving as principal of schools in Humåtak/Umatac and Dededu/Dededo. He woke up each morning at 5 a.m., however, to engage in what many called his passion – music.
Joaquin “Ding” Palomo Read Post »
Francisco Garrido Franquez (1921 – 2006), also known as “Frank” or “Ankie,” first picked up the harmonica at the age of 14 years old. In 1935 or 1936 there was a harmonica contest in the Guam schools for students throughout the island. Though Franquez did not care for the instrument at first, he continued to practice and eventually became an accomplished player.
Francisco G. Franquez Read Post »
Forrest Harris (1932 – ) first found his interest in music at nine years old while strumming a ukulele and playing a country song called “San Antonio Rose.” He would go on in his adult years to playing the mandolin, although he preferred the sound of the guitar.
Carlos T. Laguana grew up at a time when noted jazz musicians throughout Guam were making a name for themselves. The son of the late Carlos C. Laguana, Carlos T. Laguana was exposed to music at an early age.
Carlos Cruz Laguana was born on 4 November 1925, and died at age 65 on 30 June 1991. He was a banker by profession, but is best remembered for his musical prowess as a bassist.
George William Pereira Muna, more commonly known as Bill Muna, was a noted musician and active member of the community on Guam. He was an employee of the US Naval Public Works Center (PWC) up until his medical retirement in the late 1980s.
The Bautista brothers moved to Guam from the Philippines during the early 1950s. They were and are still highly respected by other local musicians.
Jazz is a unique style of modern music. Remnants of jazz can be heard in several different styles of music. The origin of jazz is said to date back to the African-American experience that emerged in the early 20th century. Since then, it has evolved into what many now consider to be one of the most popular and innovative styles of music.
