Acuna was born July 3, 1971 in Santiago, Chile. She was raised in Concepcion and quickly established herself in the Chilean jazz scene during her 20s. Acuna was quickly recognized as a leader in a rapidly changing scene, which was transformed by the arrival of a new wave of Latin American musicians in New York City. She was a part of the bustling scene that revolved around Small’s and began to collaborate with greats like Jason Lindner, Harry Whitaker (MaxJazz), Guillermo Klein, Guillermo Klein, Guillermo Klein, Guillermo Klein, Guillermo Klein, as well as Avishai Cohen, the bassist who produced her critically-acclaimed 2000 debut Wind From the South. Acuna’s five albums as a leader established her as a creative force. These included 2002’s Rhythm of Life, 2004’s Luna and 2008’s In These Shoes (Zoho Music), and 2009’s stunningly beautiful En Este Momento(Marsalis Music). Acuna is a passionate, emotionally sharp singer with a burnished bronze tone. Acuna has been focusing on her son for much of the last decade, while she’s focused on her recording career. She has stayed close to her home and is now the preferred vocalist for many of jazz’s most innovative musicians. She hasn’t stopped exploring new musical avenues with musicians like Susie Ibarra and Billy Childs, Henry Threadgill and the Rodriguez Brothers. Turning Pages is Acuna’s album which documents her creative leap. Juancho Herrera, a Colombian-born string wizard, was her key collaborator and co-wrote many songs. He also had major input in most arrangements. The album, Turning Pages, is a vision of the future. However, Acuna also takes stock of her past through songs that are new and familiar. It is the work of a woman who has been reborn from the ashes stronger, wiser and more expressive than ever. She’s ready to conquer the world once more and is eager to connect with her long-time fans as well as to create new audiences. from www.claudiaacunamusic.com
