SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 374

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas takes pleasure in recognizing Ruben G. Hernandez, bandleader of the Nash Hernandez Orchestra; and

WHEREAS, This year, Ruben Hernandez and band members proudly celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Nash Hernandez Orchestra; the orchestra was created by Ruben's father, Nash Hernandez, Sr., in 1949, and by serving as bandleader, Ruben carries on his legacy; and

WHEREAS, Ruben began playing the drums at the age of four; he learned some of the basics from his brother Dave but mainly taught himself to play; and

WHEREAS, He began playing with the Nash Hernandez Orchestra at the age of 11; drumming came to him naturally, and his style was influenced by the internationally known jazz drummer Buddy Rich; and

WHEREAS, A graduate of The University of Texas with a major in music theory and composition, Ruben continues to play the music that originally made the Nash Hernandez Orchestra a staple of the Austin music scene, featuring the big band styles of the great bandleaders and jazz players; and

WHEREAS, The orchestra continues to appeal to diverse audiences from different cultures and age groups; in addition to regular orchestral engagements, Ruben and his orchestra play for senior citizen centers, charitable organizations, and various fund-raisers; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st Legislature, hereby commend Ruben G. Hernandez for carrying on the traditions of his father's great orchestra and extend congratulations to him and the band members on the 60th anniversary of the Nash Hernandez Orchestra; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for Ruben Hernandez as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Watson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 3, 2009.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate