Live Music: Grant Ruiz

Grant Ruiz's musical journey is one of impressive depth and diversity. Growing up as the son of a bebop saxophonist, he picked up the classical guitar at the tender age of 10, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to his craft. With a love for jazz and rock music, as well as Native American flute, Ruiz's influences are wide-ranging and dynamic, allowing him to bring a unique flavor to every performance. After studying flamenco in Spain and with renowned artists in the U.S., Ruiz established himself as an active performer and teacher in Southern Oregon. He is a founding member of the Jefferson Classical Guitar Society and has served as president, secretary, and treasurer. He has also been a featured artist in several productions at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, including the 2003 world premiere of "Lorca in a Green Dress" by Nilo Cruz, where he acted as composer, arranger, pianist, and guitarist. Other engagements with the festival have included the 2019 premiere of "La Comedia of Errors" and nine seasons of the outdoor Green Show. Ruiz's talents extend beyond the classical and flamenco worlds. He has been a member of several ensembles, including the Dark Rose Trio with classical guitarists Joseph Thompson and Steve Berman, Do Flamenco with percussionist Terry Longshore, Bossa Rumba with jazz guitarist Dan Fellman, and currently Flamenco Pacifico, which he founded with Berto Boyd in 2013. He has opened for the Gipsy Kings and has performed in several other productions around the west coast. Ruiz's recording credits are equally impressive, with releases including "Grant Ruiz on Guitar," the self-titled CD "Dark Rose Trio," "12 Prayers" by James Twyman, "Verde" with Dúo Flamenco, and Flamenco Pacifico's debut album "Convivencia." As an educator, he has taught guitar extensively in Oregon, including at Southern Oregon University and the annual Britt Guitar Weekend. With a passion for music that is both technical and emotional, Grant Ruiz is a true professional and master of his craft. His dedication to his art has made him a standout performer and educator in Southern Oregon and beyond.