Kike Santander - Early Years

Early Years

Kike Santander was born in Santiago de Cali, Colombia and he was raised in La Flora, a typical upper middle class neighborhood of Cali. His father was the dentist, poet and guitarist Flavio Santander and his mother's name is Judith. His brother is the architect and composer Gustavo Santander. In Cali he spent his first years learning different rhythms and musical skills while studying at Colegio San Juan Berchmans from which he graduated in 1977. He began his musical studies at an early age, playing the accordion (his first instrument, which he played since age 8) and experimenting with instruments like acoustic guitar (to age 12), electric guitar (to age 13), lira, the electric bass (to age 16), piano and later devoted himself to the percussion (to age 18). His earliest musical influences came from a wide mix of genres that include indigenous artists of his native country. His main influences were bolero, rock and roll, Anglo-American pop, classical music and jazz. He studied music at the Cali Conservatory. In 1978, when he was 18, he began his medical studies at the Central University of Valle del Cauca from which he graduated and received institution where he received the professional title in Medicine and Surgery. He worked as a doctor for one year before deciding to dedicate himself completely to his musical career. Simultaneously he continued his musical studies in progress, improving his piano playing and studying music synthesis, midi sequencing, sound engineering, arrangements and harmony.