Artist Bio
Marlene Cruz Lozano is a violinist and teaching artist based in the Ottawa–Gatineau region, developing a distinctive voice at the intersection of classical technique, jazz language, and Latin musical traditions.
Her work explores how the violin can move fluidly across genres while remaining expressive and accessible in live performance settings. Rooted in classical training, her sound is shaped by a deep appreciation for jazz, world music, and contemporary expression. Drawing from her cultural roots and performance background, she integrates Latin and Mexican repertoire alongside contemporary influences to create engaging and emotionally resonant experiences.
Marlene is currently developing a signature live performance concept centered on storytelling, cultural identity, and modern violin performance, with the goal of expanding into festivals, cultural programming, and curated live events.
Artistic Direction
Marlene’s artistic direction centers on a cross-genre approach to violin performance, rooted in classical training and shaped by jazz, world, and contemporary influences, with a focus on Latin repertoire. She is currently developing a signature live performance concept that integrates storytelling, cultural identity, and expressive musical interpretation.
Her work explores modern performance formats, including solo violin with backing tracks, live looping, and adaptable live sets, with the goal of creating cohesive, engaging experiences that resonate across diverse audiences and performance contexts.
Live Performance Experience
Marlene has performed across a range of settings including private events, cultural spaces, and hospitality venues. Her experience includes solo violin performances with backing tracks as well as collaborative formats such as violin and guitar duo, string quartet, mariachi, guitar–cello trio, and contemporary music ensembles (including string sextet).
Recent performances include:
Corporate and private events in the Ottawa–Gatineau region
Hotel and reception performances
Cultural and themed performances featuring Latin repertoire, with a focus on traditional Mexican music, including the festival of the Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) yearly celebration.
Media
A cross-cultural interpretation of a contemporary Arabic song, reflecting Marlene’s interest in global musical traditions and melodic storytelling.
Original Orchestral Composition
(audio excerpt) Contemporary orchestral work demonstrating compositional voice and formal training.
"Angelina"
(Original composition)
A reflective violin work dedicated to Marlene’s grandmother, composed in the months following her passing. Developed during the Creative Strings Workshop in Asheville, the piece channels memory and loss through a lyrical, intimate voice, blending improvisation, danzón-inspired rhythms, and contemporary string language to create a personal tribute rooted in family, time, and remembrance.
Xantolo (Día de Muertos) Performance Video:
This performance features traditional son huasteco repertoire presented during a Xantolo (Día de Muertos) celebration in Gatineau, Québec, organized by UNAM Canada. As part of Ensamble Tlanextli, Marlene brings the vibrant musical traditions of the Huasteca region of Mexico to Canadian audiences, honoring the spirit of remembrance through rhythm, melody, and cultural storytelling. Rooted in a living tradition where music plays a central role in Día de Muertos celebrations, this repertoire reflects both joy and memory, connecting past and present through sound.
Current Focus
Refining stage presence and live performance flow
Developing a cohesive, high-impact live set
Expanding into curated and artistic performance opportunities
Contact
Marlene Cruz Lozano
📧 marlene@cruzlozano.com
🌐 https://www.cruzlozano.com