Head of Residential Lending here at ESB by day, musician  by night, Raul Vidal is a man of many talents.

It was no surprise that Raul had a desire to play from an early age. Hailing from a family of musicians, it seemed only natural, but unlike his family who played string instruments and the key board, Raul – thanks to the kindness of a neighbor – found his place among the wind instruments with the clarinet.

It was 1961 and Raul and his family had just arrived in the United States from Cuba. He longed to play an instrument but his family, like many immigrant families in a new country, could not afford much outside of the day-to-day necessities. The family’s neighbor heard about Raul’s desire to play and offered him a new clarinet originally purchased for her son who never showed much interest. Raul hasn’t put it down since.

He played through his teen years, also playing the tenor saxophone in the marching band while attending Miami Springs Senior High School, and into college while attending Florida International University. Decades later, Raul’s love of music continues. Aside from a penchant for Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, he has been part of the Greater Miami Symphonic Band since his audition in 1981 and serves on the board of the Miami Wind Symphony.

 His commitment to music is evident. With 3-hour rehearsals once a week and weekend-long rehearsals before performances, we’re wondering how Raul has time for much else!

For the Greater Miami Symphonic Band’s performance schedule and ticket information, click here.

We want to know…

                Do you play an instrument?