Rafael Luna: A multi-talented musician, educator, and mentor paving the way for the advancement of society through music Global Creative Director Rafael Luna embarks on a life-changing journey toward fulfilling his mission of promoting music while imbibing the vibrant and dynamic energy of cultures and societies.

The album cover for "Raf Standards" by Rafael Luna AKA “Raf”

credit for cover art : Kate Renshaw-Lewis - Graphic Design

Many believe that music is a universal language. After all, it has influenced cultures and societies, just as how cultures and societies have influenced it. Rafael Luna also known as “Raf”, a global creative director from California, aspires to emphasize this connection and help the next generations realize its importance.

Despite being born into a musically inclined family, Rafael’s passion for music does not only stem from it. Music naturally became a way of life for him. Because of his interest in culture and society, Rafael composed and produced jazz and contemporary music heavily inspired by them. “My music gravitates toward the art of meditation… exploring the conscious, unconscious, and the likes,” says Rafael. The multi-talented musician wanted to deepen his connection with music. Therefore, he made it both a hobby and a profession.

After obtaining a bachelor's degree in Music Performance and Technology and a master's degree in Pedagogy, Audio Visual Arts, and Musical Improvisation at the California Institute of the Arts, Rafael pursued being an educator. He kickstarted his teaching career in 2005 and worked as a flute instructor, music educator, and creative arts teacher. In 2017, Rafael established "The Raf Collective." This platform is meant to be used for academic research on the advancement of society through musical storytelling.

Two years after Rafael founded The Raf Collective, he actively began to seek more ways to elevate his teaching methodologies and academic approach. During the pandemic, he realized that pursuing music as a hobby and a professional endeavor presents two different lenses. He notes that these two distinct lenses can be utilized together to develop a more in-depth approach to teaching music. “I believe that music can’t be separated from the broader environment. How I see myself, my personal experiences, the cultures and societies I’m passionate about; I want them to resonate through my music. I just want my music to reach the hearts of as many people as possible,” says the spirited musician and educator.

Rafael conducts workshops and tours and collaborates with different schools to fulfill his mission. He recently discovered his passion for sharing his knowledge and experiences with other people. Remembering the teachings of his beloved mentor Charlie Haden, Rafael decided to become a mentor. He has a new goal of connecting with the younger generation of musicians and promoting music education. Rafael is now looking for collaborations and partnerships with educational institutions that will provide him with avenues to encourage aspiring musicians to persevere, learn, and grow.

Furthermore, in line with his life mission to incorporate his background as a researcher of societies and cultures in his music, Rafael is working on implementing a "new educational system" with a foundation centered on interdisciplinarity and holistic approaches. “As a multiracial person, my goal is to pave the way for others. I have paved my own path, and I want everyone to pave theirs,” the global creative director stressed.

Media Contact 

Name: Rafael Luna

Email: raf.globalcreativedirector@gmail.com