Prodigy's Passion: The Inspiring Legacy of Raymi Saldaña Rojas

Raymi Saldaña Rojas, a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist who passed away at the tender age of 14, left an indelible mark on the world of music. Born to Bolivian and Peruvian parents, Raymi's musical journey was one of extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and a profound love for the rich cultural heritage of the Andean region.

Unlocking the Melodies of the Andes

Raymi's musical prowess was nurtured from an early age, as he was immersed in the vibrant world of music and art that surrounded his parents, Jeanette Rojas (known as Phaxsi Coca) and Carlos Saldaña (Kanti Quena), both accomplished musicians in their own right. Despite being born in London, Raymi's Andean roots were deeply ingrained in his musical identity, as his parents taught him the traditional instruments and rhythms of the region.

Mastering the Charango and Beyond

Raymi's exceptional talent was evident from a young age, as he excelled in playing the 10-stringed charango, a traditional Andean instrument. His proficiency extended beyond the charango, as he also achieved grade 8 in piano and was working towards grade 8 in the flute, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft.

Shining on the Stage

Raymi's musical journey took him to prestigious venues and music festivals, where he captivated audiences with his virtuosic performances. At the tender age of nine, he won an award from Young Sounds UK, which provided him with funding and opportunities to further hone his skills, including playing in a chamber music project at the Royal Academy of Music and exploring jazz improvisation at Leeds Conservatoire.

Honoring a Prodigy's Legacy

Raymi's untimely passing has left a profound impact on those who knew him, and his mentors and teachers at Music Education Islington are setting up an award in his name to recognize his exceptional talent and his unwavering passion for music.

Carrying on the Tradition

Raymi's musical legacy lives on through his involvement with the family trio, Sagrada Familia UK – Sumaq Ayllu, a project that emerged during the pandemic. Together with his parents, Raymi recorded an album of Latin American folk music, showcasing his mastery of the flute, charango, and keyboard.

Embracing the Multifaceted Prodigy

Raymi's talents extended beyond the realm of music, as he was an avid reader and enjoyed spending time with his friends, playing in two different bands: the mellow rock band Walrus and the jazz trio Dynamic Trio. Additionally, Raymi was a passionate advocate for peace, justice, and environmental awareness, working with the charity Global Generation to attract wildlife and raise awareness about climate change.The name Raymi, which means "festival" or "celebration" in Quechua, and his second name, Willka, which translates to "sacred" in Quechua and "sun" in Aymara, perfectly encapsulate the vibrant and profound spirit that Raymi embodied. His legacy will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and the indelible mark he left on the world of music and beyond.