Today we’d like to introduce you to Oscar Munoz.
Hi Oscar, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
L9 Orquesta was founded by Oscar Muñoz, a Colombian Music Director, composer, and producer, who began the project in London, UK, in 2000. The vision from the start was to create a signature sound rooted in the rich influences of Latin music from the 1970s and early 1980s, while bringing a fresh, modern energy to live performance.
Over the years, L9 Orquesta has grown into a collective of highly professional and talented musicians dedicated to making every performance enjoyable, energetic, and truly memorable. Our passion for music and attention to detail have allowed us to perform at a wide range of events and connect with diverse audiences.
Today, L9 Orquesta offers a broad and versatile repertoire to suit all tastes and occasions, including reception and background live music, Bossa Nova, Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia, Reggaeton, and more. Our journey has been driven by a deep respect for Latin music traditions and a commitment to delivering exceptional live experiences.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely not been a smooth road, but every challenge helped shape who we are today.
I began studying music at the Music Conservatory in Cali, Colombia, where I initially focused on classical guitar. While the training was valuable, I didn’t fully connect with the instrument and found the experience somewhat limiting. That led me to switch to trombone, which I immediately enjoyed much more.
Even though the conservatory had a strong classical emphasis, I became increasingly drawn to popular and tropical music. Through friends who were playing in salsa bands, I started learning more about the genre outside of the academic environment, gaining real-world experience and a deeper understanding of Latin music.
During this period, I faced a major setback when I began struggling with chronic sinusitis. On medical advice, I was forced to stop playing the trombone, which was a very difficult decision. Rather than stepping away from music, I chose to adapt.
That challenge opened the door to new possibilities. I became deeply interested in the double bass, fascinated by both its musical and rhythmic role. Soon after, I also felt a strong attraction to percussion, which led me to study and perform on hand percussion instruments such as congas, timbales, bongos, vibraphone and others.
Learning multiple instruments not only kept me connected to music, but also shaped my versatility as a musician and composer an influence that continues to define my work today.
In the early years, one of the biggest struggles was simply saving enough money to record our own music. Everything was self-funded, and we had to be extremely disciplined and patient to bring our ideas to life in the studio. There were no shortcuts—just persistence and belief in the sound we were creating.
Around 2005, promotion was another major challenge. Social media didn’t exist, so growing an audience meant literally knocking on doors, introducing ourselves to venues, event organizers, and anyone willing to listen. We worked hard to build relationships with radio stations and television outlets, often facing rejection, but continuing to push forward.
At the same time, the music industry was going through a major shift. New technology was emerging, and new genres, especially reggaeton, were rising very strongly. Traditional salsa and Latin orchestral music were no longer the industry’s main focus, which made it even harder to get attention and opportunities.
Despite all of this, we stayed committed to our identity and sound. Those struggles taught us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of evolving while still respecting our roots. Looking back, the obstacles were challenging, but they played a crucial role in building the foundation of L9 Orquesta.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our work centers on creating high-quality live music experiences that are both authentic and memorable. At L9 Orquesta, we specialize in Latin orchestral music, with a strong foundation in salsa, while also embracing a wide range of styles to adapt to different audiences and events.
We are known for our signature sound, which blends the classic influences of 1970s and early-1980s Latin music with a modern, refined approach to performance and arrangement. Beyond playing music, we focus heavily on musical direction, original arrangements, and dynamic live shows that connect emotionally with the audience.
What I am most proud of is the level of professionalism and musicianship within the band. Every member is a skilled, dedicated musician, and that commitment allows us to deliver consistent quality at every performance, whether it’s an intimate reception, a cultural event, or a large celebration.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
First and foremost, I give all the credit to God, as every blessing and opportunity in our journey has come from Him. My faith has been a constant source of strength, guidance, and gratitude throughout this process.
I am also deeply grateful to my colleagues and fellow musicians, whose dedication, talent, and commitment have played a vital role in the growth and success of L9 Orquesta. Music is never built alone, and their support has been essential at every stage.
A very special acknowledgment goes to my music mentor, Jorge Herrera, musician, sound engineer whose guidance, knowledge, and encouragement helped shape my musical direction. His influence pushed me to grow not only as a musician, but also as a composer and leader.
I would also like to recognize our music engineer and arranger, who worked closely with us and made our album recordings possible. His technical expertise, creative input, and attention to detail were fundamental in bringing our sound to life in the studio.
To everyone who believed in the project, supported us, and shared in the vision, thank you. Each contribution played an important role in making L9 Orquesta what it is today.
We are also excited to announce our upcoming album, scheduled for release this spring, titled “Te Encuentro.”
The album features nine original tracks, blending the vibrant rhythms of salsa and cumbia with the signature sound of Latin9 Orquesta.
We look forward to sharing this new music and hope it resonates with our audiences while continuing to deliver the energy and authenticity that define our work.
We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to my family for their unconditional support, my wife, my daughter, and my son, who proudly contributes to our band and its music.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.l9orquesta.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latin9.orquesta
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@latin9orquesta895
