Juan Felipe Calderón is a drummer, composer, and audio engineer whose versatile and intercultural style positions him at the forefront of Colombia’s vibrant and evolving music scene. Drawing inspiration from a rich tapestry of Colombian musical traditions, including Indigenous, African, and European influences, Calderón blends these elements with jazz and improvised music to create a unique and captivating sound.

Born in Manizales, Colombia, Calderón's musical journey began with his aunt Inés, who instilled in him a love for Colombian music by playing piano. His parents further nurtured his musical curiosity, exposing him to jazz, classical, and traditional music. He joined his high school's Symphonic Band and studied drums at the University of Caldas's youth program.

 

A high-achieving student, Calderón graduated from the Pontifical Xavierian University with honors, earning degrees in both jazz performance and sound engineering. His groundbreaking thesis explored the rich musical traditions of Colombia's Pacific Coast. While at university, he discovered a passion for improvisation and began collaborating with a diverse range of musicians, developing his own distinctive musical voice.
 

In 2015, Calderón received the prestigious Armand Zildjian Scholarship, enabling him to study at the Drummers Collective in New York City under the guidance of renowned drummers Ian Froman and Peter Retzlaff. This immersive experience provided him with invaluable insights into the heart of the New York jazz scene, further refining his skills and expanding his musical horizons.

 

Upon returning to Bogotá, Calderón quickly established himself as a sought-after performer. In 2018, he released his debut album, "Los Taitas," a captivating blend of Afro-Colombian and Indigenous traditions with jazz and improvised music.

 

His 2022 release, "SÜR," showcased a more contemporary and electronic approach, further solidifying his position as a leading voice in Colombian music. Beyond his musical pursuits, Calderón recognizes the transformative power of music. His work as a sound producer for Colombia's Truth Commission highlighted the profound impact of music in the healing process, providing a platform for victims to share their stories and find solace.

Calderón is a dedicated educator, having taught drums at the Pontifical Xavierian University and other music schools. He has toured extensively, performing with renowned artists such as Antonio Arnedo, Adriana Lucía, amongst others, and has participated in the U.S. Department of State's Center Stage program.