Background
Ortega was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico near the banks of the Rio Grande. Through his father"s work with the United States Department of State, he also spent time in Ecuador and Barbados.
Ortega was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico near the banks of the Rio Grande. Through his father"s work with the United States Department of State, he also spent time in Ecuador and Barbados.
Ortega graduated from Valley High School and The University of New Mexico, where he received his bachelor’s degree in music education.
He is noted both for his interpretations of many traditional hymns and songs, such as "Give Maine Jesus" and "Be Thou My Vision", and for writing clear, easily understood songs, such as "This Good Day". He started learning piano at eight years of age. His family lived in Chimayo, New Mexico for eight generations, which has been cited as an influence on his music
lieutenant is from his heritage and classical training at The University of New Mexico where Ortega derives his sound, embracing country, classical, Celtic, Latin American, world, modern folk and rustic hymnody.
Storm reached Number. 197 on the Billboard 200 in. Christmas Songs reached Number.
36 on the Billboard Christmas Album Chart in 2009.