In this engaging conversation, Otmaro Ruiz shares insights into his musical journey, from his upbringing and early influences to his teaching philosophy and collaborations with renowned artists, including Dianne Reeves, Alex Acuna, Abraham Laboriel, Justo Almario, Gino Vanelli, John McLaughlin, and Protocol – Simon Phillips. He discusses the challenges of adapting his music for live performances, the creative process behind his solo albums, and the impact of his experiences on his growth as a musician. Otmaro reflects on the importance of education in music, the evolution of teaching methods, and the unique challenges faced by today’s musicians. He also shares memorable stories from his career, including his work with iconic artists and the lessons learned along the way.

To listen / watch:

1. Audio-only: click on the play button in the audio player above, or:


2. Video: watch the embedded video below or check it and previous episodes out on our YouTube Channel

Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):  

Otmaro’s full discography

Working on show prep with Simon Phillips for the upcoming tour of the Lado B Brazilian Project

Otmaro’s musical upbringing

Otmaro’s approach as a music educator

Otmaro’s relationship with synthesizers

Otmaro Ruiz Plays Ryuichi Sakamoto

Otmaro Ruiz – Distant Friends

Otmaro Ruiz – Nothing to Hide

Otmaro Ruiz – Sojourn

Otmaro Ruiz – Elemental

Otmaro Ruiz – Essencia

Working with Alex Acuna

Working with Abraham Laboriel

Working with Justo Almario

Otmaro’s performance / touring time with Dianne Reeves

Otmaro in action live with Dianne Reeves

Effortless Mastery – Kenny Werner

Working with Gino Vanelli

Otmaro in action live with Gino Vanelli 2002

Working with Frank Gambale

Otmaro playing live with Frank Gambale and Alain Caron

Otmaro’s thoughts on imposter syndrome and learning throughout a career in music

Otmaro and John McLaughlin – The Heart of Things (Live in Paris)

When you have to learn John McLaughlin’s repertoire from scratch

Working with Lee Ritenour

Otmaro playing live with Lee Ritenour 2018

Working with Simon Phillips and Protocol

Otmaro playing live with Protocol

Otmaro’s Protocol keyboard rig

Otmaro’s hilarious train wreck story

Desert Island Discs*: Now He Sings, Now He Sobs – Chick Corea, The Köln Concert – Keith Jarrett, Piano Concertos – Ravel / Nelson Goerner, Fictionary – Lyle Mays, Jammin’ with Herbie – Herbie Hancock

*Specific album choices curated by David where needed

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The post Otmaro Ruiz, Protocol / Dianne Reeves / Gino Vanelli / Alex Acuna / Solo Artist appeared first on The Keyboard Chronicles.