Edwin “Imer” Santiago is a native of Lorain, Ohio, born to parents originally from Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. After high school, where he played in the orchestra, marching, concert, and jazz bands, Imer graduated from The Ohio State University, earning bachelor’s degrees in Jazz Studies (performance) and Atmospheric Sciences before attending the University of New Orleans, from which he received a master’s degree in Jazz Studies performance. Among his musical instructors at UNO were legendary musicians Ellis Marsalis, Harold Battiste, Wendell Brunious, Clyde Kerr, Jr., Ed Petersen & Steve Masakowski.
Imer has taught a variety of subjects, including Spanish, Video Productions, PE, Chorus, Music, Mariachi, Jazz Band, and Band (grades 5-12) in public schools since 2001 (Nashville, TN; Leon County, FL; and Osceola County, FL). He served as the Director of the Jazz Band Program at The Osceola County School for the Arts in Kissimmee, FL, where he led four Jazz Big Bands, The OCSA Salsa Orchestra, various Jazz Combos, & the OCSA Mariachi Club. Santiago’s top high school Jazz Band, Jazz Band A, performed at the 22nd & 23rd Annual Essentially Ellington Competition & Festivals in NYC (May 2017 & May 2018). Additionally, Imer leads musical worship, presents performances, clinics, and masterclasses around the United States and internationally. He is a member of The Jazz Orchestra at Dr. Phillips Center, The Central Florida Jazz Society, and the Jazz Education Network. Currently, Santiago is the Director of Bands at St. Cloud Middle School, and also resides in St. Cloud, FL, with his wife and three children. Together, they seek to daily serve their local community, nation, and ultimately the world.
Santiago is a Yamaha Performing Artist, leads the Imer Santiago Quintet, and does recording sessions throughout Central FL and beyond. His 2013 CD release, Hidden Journey, garnered critical acclaim, national attention, and even received consideration in several categories for the annual GRAMMY & Latin GRAMMY Awards.
In February 2019, Imer Santiago released a three-song multilingual, multi-stylistic EP, entitled Dios de Toda La Creación / God of All Creation. His most recent project is a seven-song multilingual praise & worship EP, All Things New, which was released on August 2, 2024. Imer’s published musical works are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and other major digital platforms. He is passionate about celebrating unity through diversity, assisting others in understanding cultural and ethnic identities (including their own), and helping everyone become better at being a loving, global citizen via music and the arts. Imer deeply believes that “the future of the world depends on each of us.”
Imer is available for musical performances, musical worship leading, culture coaching, and speaking engagements (in-person and online). He may be contacted via email at imersantiagomusic@gmail.com.
Yamaha Artist Link: http://www.yamaha.com/artists/imersantiago.html
Links to Original Music by Imer:
- Reminiscence
- Flat 2176 (Para Puente)
- Para Laisa
- What A Wonderful World (cover)
- Su Nombre Santo Es / Holy Is His Name
- All Things New
