Edmar Castañeda is a Colombian-born harpist, composer, and bandleader widely recognized as one of the most original voices in contemporary jazz. A Latin GRAMMY nominee for Family, he has redefined the role of the harp through a singular technique that seamlessly blends bass lines, harmony, and melody.Â
Since arriving in New York in 1994, Castañeda has collaborated with artists including Wynton Marsalis, Paquito D’Rivera, John Scofield, Marcus Miller, Hiromi, and Béla Fleck. He is also a member of BEATrio with Fleck and Antonio Sánchez, whose album earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.Â
A groundbreaking artist, Castañeda has transformed the Colombian harp into an instrument of remarkable rhythmic drive and harmonic depth. His work as a composer includes commissions from Carnegie Hall and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and he served as a performer and music consultant on Disney’s Encanto.Â
His latest quartet album, Rumba en la Casa, reflects themes of family, roots, and our shared home. McCarter welcomes Castañeda back following his spellbinding performance as part of BEATrio.Â
