Meet Carlos Fernando Lopez

Grammy and Latin Grammy Award Winner

 

Carlos Fernando Lopez, widely known as "Carlitos Lopez," is an accomplished producer, composer, and conductor who seamlessly bridges the worlds of classical and popular music. His remarkable achievements include winning the Latin Grammy Award in 2022 for Best Christian Album (Marcos Witt - "Vivire"), in 2020 for Best Contemporary Classical Composition with his work "Sacre," and securing the coveted Record of the Year at the 2019 Latin Grammy Awards for "Mi Persona Favorita."

 

In addition to these accolades, Carlos proudly holds a Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album in 2016, an achievement he earned alongside the iconic Ricky Martin.

 

A Legacy of Musical Excellence

Carlos's musical journey began with his grandfather, an opera singer, who ignited his passion for the art form. His formal training commenced at the tender age of 10 when he enrolled in bassoon studies at the Tolima Conservatory. After relocating to Bogotá with his family, he further honed his skills in piano and composition at the National Conservatory of Colombia. At just 14 years old, Carlos clinched the Young Performers Competition of the National Symphony Orchestra of Colombia, showcasing his piano virtuosity as a soloist with the orchestra.

 

A Distinguished Education

With a profound commitment to his craft, Carlos has achieved remarkable academic milestones. He holds a Doctorate in Orchestra Conducting, a Magna Cum Laude degree in Music Production, and a Master's degree in Composition from the esteemed University of Miami - Frost School of Music.

 

A Rich Tapestry of Collaborations

Carlos's influence extends far and wide, with over 200 collaborative works alongside renowned artists such as Ricky Martin, Laura Pausini, Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, Alejandro Sanz, Fonseca, Andres Cepeda, Pablo Alborán, and many others. He also co-produced the celebratory 50th-anniversary album of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Bogotá, which earned a Latin Grammy for Best Engineered Album. In 2016, he lent his orchestrating and conducting talents to the virtual experience game "Mars 2030" in partnership with NASA and Fusion TV, collaborating with the London Symphony Orchestra.

 

A Commitment to Education

Carlos's dedication to the transformative power of music and education is unwavering. Remarkably, he began his teaching career at the age of 18 at the Superior Academy of Arts of Bogotá. His roles at the institution included Assistant Professor, Music Department Director, and Director of the accreditation committee. Carlos played a pivotal role in the evolution of the Superior Academy into the School of Arts at District University. Recognized for his expertise, he served as Advisor to the President of the University, Carlos Ossa Escobar, contributing to the university's restructuring efforts.

 

Furthermore, Carlos coordinated the National Plan of Music for Coexistence in 110 small towns across Colombia in collaboration with the Colombian Culture Ministry. He also served as the academic advisor for Canzion Institute of Music, an institution with a global presence encompassing more than 65 schools worldwide.

Carlos Lopez's journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and education, and his dedication continues to enrich the world of music and inspire future generations.