Artist, Jazz Piano Performer, and Composer.

I am a Colombian American artist who grew up in an artistic environment nurtured by my father, Fernando Baena (a locally renowned musician from Quindío), and my grandfather, Jairo Baena (a poet and author). This motivated me to continue to develop my musical skills. My goal is to help bring communities together through music and art; by blending my Hispanic and American cultures to remind us that humanity is one whole family, and that cultural exchange is vital to keep enriching our lives with experiences and knowledge. At age 24, I decided to continue to develop my musical skills by returning to the United States to pursue a Bachelor of Music in Jazz and American Improvised Music Performance with a focus on Piano at Metropolitan State University of Denver. I have had the honor to study with Colorado renowned musicians like Dawn Clement, Dave Devine and Dru Heller, as well as Ron Miles, Mark Harris and Carmen Sandim.

My sound consists of blending Colombian folk sounds with electronic instruments, preserving traditional styles, and exploring modern sounds. I am drawn to the sounds of the Tamboresand flutes of Colombia, and electronic instruments like the synthesizers, e-keyboards, and analog electronic drum machines. My soon to be released original compositions are inspired by the Colombian landscape, nature, and childhood. Some of my lyrics were inspired by what it’s like to see the world from a child’s perspective, with both honesty and innocence. I believe that music plays an important role in expressing identity. In my opinion, music must achieve two goals: expressing self-identity, while expressing the community’s identity. I have been working on my project that involves the sound and song releases, parallel to completing a Bachelor of Music with a concentration in Jazz and American Improvised Music at Metropolitan State University of Denver.