I was born in Guapi, Colombia and studied music at Codarts University for the Arts in Rotterdam in the Netherlands. I have been playing music professionally since my childhood and performed with a big range of amazing artists and bands in addition to directing my own Salsa band. After graduation I started teaching as a faculty member at the Latin vocal department at Codarts University for the Arts and I am regularly invited to teach music classes and workshops in different European countries. Besides performing and teaching I do commissions, composing and arranging music for different projects. Since 2011 I am based in the beautifull little country of Luxembourg in the center of Europe.
My debut album was released in 2006. It has been reviewed by American Descarga as “a tremendous effort that pays off big right from the opening track”. In 2012 it was followed by my second album which is a crossover of swinging Salsa with the huge folkloric traditions of my home country Colombia. The band includes the top of the European Salsa scene. With musicians originating from Colombia, Cuba, Venezuela, Germany, the USA and the Netherlands, this international band offers its audience tremendously danceable Colombian Salsa. Formed in 2006 the band has already performed on prominent venues and music festivals all over the BENELUX.
In 2015 I created DUO MESTIZO together with the Luxembourgish percussionist Eric Durrer. A project in which we both sing and play an instrument at the same time. Our repertoire includes Latin American standards and own compositions.
I am giving workshops for beginners and professionals. These workshops include the basics of Salsa music: the clave concept, rhythms and basic techniques for handling the instruments. With more advanced students I work on interpretation, improvisation and stage presence. Moreover I give advise on arrangements and compositions.
In my workshops at primary and secondary schools the kids and young adults get an overview of Colombia’s geography, food, vibrant traditions and get an introduction to the rhythms of the Pacific Coast from where I originate. In a relaxed and fun atmosphere the participants learn traditional songs and it's corresponding dance steps.
