“Surrounded by a real orgy of loud and louder recordings, Oscar Peñas’ new CD feels like an oasis of variety and good musical taste. It was also great fun playing my C clarinet on that charming Chorinho he wrote for me!” – Paquito D’Rivera

Oscar Peñas is a distinguished bandleader, performer, and composer whose musical journey began at the age of eight with classical guitar. By seventeen, he confidently transitioned to jazz guitar, paving the way for a truly remarkable career. As a cum laude graduate of the Berklee College of Music and an honors graduate from the New England Conservatory, Oscar has led multiple small ensembles since 2007. His ability to compose and arrange original music captivates audiences through a powerful storytelling approach rooted in real-life experiences.

Originally from Barcelona, Spain, Peñas made his mark in New York after relocating in 2007. He swiftly established himself as a leading jazz composer and guitarist, commanding attention at some of the most prestigious venues across the United States. Renowned for his distinctive style and innovative modern jazz compositions, Peñas masterfully blends elements of jazz, classical music, his Spanish heritage, and various rhythms, creating a signature sound that resonates with audiences everywhere.

Oscar Peñas boasts an impressive discography featuring collaborations with jazz luminaries such as Mike Stern, Greg Leisz, Ron Carter, Gil Goldstein, Esperanza Spalding, and Paquito D’Rivera. His first two albums, released by the Fresh Sound New Talent label in 2003 and 2005, were just the beginning; he has since produced four albums under his own label, musikOZ, in the United States.

Oscar Peñas has been honored for his contributions to music, being recognized as one of the composer awardees by the New York State Council on the Arts and receiving the New Music Creator Fund Award from New Music USA. His accolades also include several grants, such as the Jazz Road Grant from the South Arts Organization in 2022, the Mid-Atlantic Arts grant, the USAI Grant in 2021, and the ASCAP Plus Award from 2012 to 2024.

An active member of ASCAP, Local 802, LARAS, NARAS, and Fractured Atlas, Peñas is not only a revered artist but also a dedicated educator. He lives in Brooklyn, New York, with his wife, who is also his manager and agent and supports him in all his creative endeavors.

Currently, Peñas is immersed in creating a suite for five acoustic instruments titled “Remote Hoods,” a compelling tribute to New York’s vibrant diversity. Commissioned by the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), this exciting piece will premiere in 2026.