Otmaro Ruiz

Dr. Otmaro Ruiz is an Adjunct Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music, where he teaches jazz piano. A Grammy-nominated artist with a career spanning decades, Ruiz has collaborated with legends like Dianne Reeves, John McLaughlin, and Arturo Sandoval, blending expertise in jazz, fusion, and Latin music. He maintains an active artistic career while offering private lessons and online instruction.

Research and Creative Focus: Ruiz’s work bridges Cinematic Jazz, Brazilian music, and electric Latin-jazz fusion, exemplified by his 2018 album Elemental and 2015 Grammy-nominated Catina DeLuna and Lado B Brazilian Project. His compositions integrate storytelling, improvisation, and cross-genre collaboration.

Recognition: Ruiz has received the

• Audie Award (2004)
• Bronze Remi (2004)
• Venezuelan National Artist’s Institute Lifetime Special Award

for his international contributions.

Teaching and Outreach: Beyond USC, Ruiz has taught at Shepherd University, Los Angeles Music Academy, and Musicians Institute. He conducts global masterclasses, offers online lessons via Skype, and mentors private students at his home studio. His wife, Catina DeLuna, collaborates in teaching beginners and intermediates.

Artistic Projects: Ruiz tours with Simon Phillips and Lee Ritenour, co-founded the electric trio Elemental, and produced live recordings like Spontaneous with Rhiannon, Alex Acuña, and Abraham Laboriel. His studio features a Yamaha C7 grand piano and Nord/Spectrasonics endorsements.