Juan Ruiz "Desde Lejos" CD Release Party

Juan combines his Latin roots, jazz and classical training in his original compositions and performances as well. He approaches music with a spirit of curiosity, and his compositions as well as his solos are nourished by his childhood experiences, his home country, and the optimism he perceives among Colombians.

Composer, Saxophonist and Clarinetist Juan Ruiz began his musical studies when he was 11, studying Latin American percussion in his hometown of Caldas Antioquia, Colombia.

Juan was awarded a full scholarship to study a BM in clarinet performance and composition and later a Master Degree on Modern American Music at Longy school of Music. Later In 2015, Juan studied at The Berklee College of Music with Dr. Shannon Leclaire and George Garzone.

Recently, Juan Ruiz’ Quintet had the opportunity to share stage with the 14th Grammy Winner Paquito D’Rivera.