Fernando Ortega

Having received classical piano instruction and immersed himself in the Hispanic heritage of his native New Mexico, gospel singer and songwriter Fernando Ortega issued over six albums across multiple imprints prior to inking a deal with Myrrh/Word during 1997 amid a surge in Christian music that introduced diverse styles into the worship services of established denominations. Drawn to both American and Irish folk traditions alongside the Spanish-infused sounds from his upbringing, Ortega incorporated studies of early music and hymns into his formal training. He self-released material independently for a number of years ahead of his Myrrh association and collaborated with producer John Andrew Schreiner on the 1998 major-label release This Bright Hour. Two years afterward came Home.