Teacher Profile: Rafael Saliba

About Rafael Saliba

Rafael was born and raised in a small town called Cumbaya in Ecuador. Music has always been a very big part of his life. His father is a professional musician that has toured many South American countries back in the 80's with his folk-classic band. Rafael started playing his first instrument, the flute, when he was 6 years old and took professional lessons with the first Flautist of the National Symphonic Orchestra of Ecuador Eugenia Aizaga over a period of 10 years. At the age of 10 he picked up piano, and at age 14 started playing ukulele, percussion, and guitar.

When he was 17, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his passion for acting, graduating in 2019 with a BFA. While living in California, his musical background expanded, leading him to play for several worship bands as well as giving private lessons to a variety of students. His ability to read music plus his trained ear has helped him develop a musical career as a singer, performing for his University's A cappella group, The Glee Club. He also was part of 3 musical productions: Mamma Mia, Beauty and the Beast, and Frozen. Rafael is an extremely committed and hardworking artist that will learn something from any circumstance. Someone that believes in values and morals, and that no matter what, will never give up!

Rafael has a heart for teaching students not only to play their instruments but to have a passion for music. He believes that music can have a tremendous positive impact in someone's life. It is not a hobby but a lifestyle, something that he hopes all his students will benefit from and pursue for many years.

Fun Facts: Rafael has over 5 years of experience Beatboxing, and is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.