World-renowned, classically trained guitarist Gabriel Ayala, from Tucson, received the Arts/Culture award at the 11^th Annual Dream Catcher Foundation Gala this past October. Ayala performs regularly throughout the U.S. and Canada. He recently returned from a trip to Vancouver, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Los Angeles, where he collaborated with the Black Eyed Peas on an album “that is sure to make a mark on the world of music”.

When presented with the award, Ayala did not accept it for himself. Instead he said, “I am a reflection of those that raised me. It took a woman—my grandmother—to teach me how to be a man. I dedicate this award in the name of my grandmother, Eduvigues Ayala.”

During the three days preceding the gala, Ayala spoke and performed with the local youth—a passion of his. “These are the reasons I live this life I live. I don’t do it for the accolades, awards, trophies, and definitely not for the money,” says Ayala. “I’m a millionaire because of the family I’ve been blessed with and for the opportunities to be around youth and to share my life with them and let them know that they’re bound for greatness.”

For more information, call 520-271-5469, email [email protected] or visit AyalaGuitarist.com.