Oscar Lopez

Oscar Lopez, born in 1953 in Santiago, Chile, is a Chilean-Canadian guitarist whose signature style blends Latin and jazz influences into a sound that is both technically brilliant and deeply soulful. Lopez studied music through the University of Chile's youth music program before moving to Canada in 1978 following the political upheaval in his homeland. He initially settled in Winnipeg, Manitoba, before moving to Calgary, Alberta, in 1981, where he began pursuing music as a career. Starting as an electric guitarist in a rock cover band, he eventually transitioned to performing as a Latin-style acoustic guitarist. He released his debut album Hola in 1989, beginning a prolific recording career. At the 1990 Northern Lights Festival Boréal, Lopez met singer-songwriter James Keelaghan, and the two began exploring the fusion of Celtic and Latin music, creating a unique cross-cultural sound. Lopez won his first Juno Award in the Best Instrumental Album category for Armando's Fire at the 2002 Junos, followed by a second Juno in the same category for Mi Destino/My Destiny at the 2005 Junos. Completely self-taught, Lopez's unique approach has contributed to the passion and fearlessness displayed in his unapologetic showmanship both on and off the world stage. With his virtuosic guitar playing, infectious rhythms, and ability to bridge musical cultures, Oscar Lopez has become one of Canada's most beloved instrumental artists and a true ambassador of Latin music, inspiring audiences across the country and around the world with his joyful, spirited performances.

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