Background & Training
César Orozco is a Cuban-Venezan pianist, violinist, composer, and arranger whose musical foundation was shaped by both Cuban and Venezuelan traditions. He trained at the National School of Arts in Havana and later earned a Graduate Performance Diploma from The Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University, building a strong classical and contemporary background that continues to inform his work.
Musical Identity
César is known for blending Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Venezuelan and Cuban influences, and contemporary jazz into a sound that feels both sophisticated and deeply rooted. His artistry brings together refined technique, expressive improvisation, and thoughtful arranging, allowing him to move seamlessly between performance, composition, and collaboration across a wide range of musical settings.
Career Highlights
Based in the New York tri-state area, César has built an international career performing and recording with celebrated artists including Paquito D’Rivera, Pedrito Martinez, Yosvany Terry, Giovanni Hidalgo, Gilberto Santa Rosa, and Luis Enrique. His work has been featured at major venues and festivals across the United States, Europe, Latin America, and Australia, reflecting his versatility and global reach.
Recognition & Artistry
A Latin Grammy Award winner for Best Arrangement for Camaleón and a three-time Latin Grammy nominee, César is widely recognized for his originality as both a performer and creative leader. In addition to his performing career, he is also a dedicated educator who offers masterclasses, lectures, and private instruction, sharing his knowledge with the same passion and rigor that define his artistry.
What is your primary skill or instrument? Do you sing or play any other instruments?
The piano is my primary instrument but I also play the violin and sing.
How old were you when you started studying your craft? Why did you begin?
I started playing the piano and violin when I was 7 years old
Besides Bollywood & Pop, what other styles of music do you love to play?
Latin music (salsa, bolero, bossa nova, tango), Latin Jazz and traditional Jazz.
How else do you like to spend your free time when you're not practicing or performing?
I love watching movies and soccer games.
Do you teach or only perform? If you do teach, in what context?
I am a full time music teacher at a private high school.
What is your educational background and what degree(s) do you have?
I have a Bachelor Degree in Violin and Ensemble Conducting from the National School of Arts in Havana Cuba, and a Graduate Performance Diploma in Jazz Piano from the Peabody Institute of the John Hopkins University.
Do you speak any other languages besides English? Which one(s) and how well?
I am a Spanish native speaker.
What music did you grow up listening to?
I grew up to a lot of Latin music and also jazz and pop/rock.
What’s your go-to show off song you play when someone puts you on the spot?
It depends of the circumstances and context.
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