Alejandro Reyes: A Tribute to the Man Behind the Music
The Heartbreaking Announcement
At 21:29 hours, the message arrived, concise yet devastating: “Alejandro Reyes has passed away” (Almería, 1944-2025). The source, David Calzado, a former colleague from the San Juan Evangelista club, instantly triggered disbelief. The search for confirmation online yielded nothing, creating a fleeting moment of hope. But soon, messages began flooding in, confirming the painful reality, which left many grappling with the depth of their sorrow.
A Quiet Departure
In a fitting yet poignant manner reflective of Alejandro’s character, he expressed a desire to depart without fanfare—no wakes, no funerals, just family. Those closest to him encapsulated his essence perfectly, imagining grand send-offs he would’ve enjoyed—a marching band parading through Almería or a vibrant flamenco tribute. As the head of the revered Club de Música y Jazz San Juan Evangelista, Alejandro shaped countless lives through music.
Memories of a Musical Journey
Alejandro’s journey was a tapestry woven with musical passions. The San Juan was not just a venue; it was his heart. He loved Almería, particularly the Cabo de Gata region, and his culinary passions were as robust as his love for music. A democratic spirit propelled him to fight for freedom during a transformative time in Spain, including a notable stint in the cultural council under Tierno Galván.
Born simply as Reyes, he later adopted Alejandro—one can imagine he found the regal title limiting, believing instead that he deserved a name befitting his monumental spirit. Arriving in Madrid to study industrial engineering, he left with only a few exams outstanding, rejecting offers to complete them just for the sake of formality.
The Genre Innovator
Alejandro had an innate connection to music, particularly jazz, which he viewed as the embodiment of freedom and improvisation. Flamenco flowed in his veins, and while he indulged in various genres, he dismissed the new age movement as a temporary deviation from his true artistic identity.
His professional milestones were impressive: from winning the Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts in 2010 to celebrating significant concerts, including the last performance of the iconic Camarón. His work through various institutions, including the Youth Institute and promoting festivals like Jazz, Flamenco, and Gospel in Madrid, proved his commitment to cultural enrichment.
The Legacy Left Behind
Despite battling health issues in later years, Alejandro’s passing felt sudden to all who knew and adored him. As his friends shared personal messages and celebrated his life in small gatherings, he began to embrace social media and reconnect with political activism back in Almería. His later years were marked by recognition, including tributes from the El Taranto group and the ex-students of San Juan Evangelista, even inspiring a documentary titled Club de Reyes by filmmaker Andrea Barrionuevo in 2016.
A Lasting Impact
Writing this farewell feels surreal, the grief too heavy to comprehend. Alejandro often reminded me, “Pablo, remember, Presi-Uno-Más, no one is indispensable.” Yet, for those who had the privilege to know him, he was. He left us as a staunch supporter of FC Barcelona—perhaps his only flaw, as jokingly noted by the late jazz journalist, José Ramón Rubio. But we take solace in knowing wherever he may be, he has reunited with his friend Merayo and legends like Miles Davis and Sarah Vaughan—artists he felt indebted to in spirit.
As we mourn Alejandro, we recognize the profound debt we owe him. His legacy lives in every note, beat, and jazz riff echoing throughout the halls he cherished.