about

Joe Cefalu is a multi-faceted musician based in Los Angeles, California, specializing in Musical Direction and Keyboards for artists. He has had the opportunity to serve acts such as KayCyy, Will Breman, Avamarie, Shiah Luna, Quin Jaye, Kabwasa, Misa James, Stella Reine, and Sofia Jasmine. In addition to working with artists, Joe is a resident Associate Musical Director for shows at California’s Great America.

 

Joe was born and raised in San Jose, California, and it was there that he began his musical journey at age five studying piano under mother and professional musician Dolores Duran-Cefalu. Joe was surrounded by music growing up, both in a household with musical parents as well as in school where he was able to play and collaborate with other students. It was here that Joe was immersed in Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Musical Theatre, and Choral Accompaniment. Joe also gained extensive performance experience away from school in theme parks, local music venues, and community theatre.

 

After graduating Abraham Lincoln High School, Joe went on to study Commercial and Media Writing (film scoring) at California State University, Northridge. During these four years, he was able to hone the broad musical upbringing he’d enjoyed into a marketable skillset and intense passion for music. Also at this time, Joe began to play in church, where he fell in love with the gospel sound which he continues to draw influence from today.

 

One year out of music school, Joe is lucky to be working his dream job full-time. His values of musicality, excellence, and versatility keep him working but he strives to always remain grounded and a student of life.