Esperanza Spalding was born in Oregon and learned to play the violin at a young age, gaining experience in a small local orchestra. Her interest turned to upright bass in her teens, and she ended up in Boston at the Berklee College of Music. This gave her the chance to perfect her art and even start giving classes, becoming one of the youngest teachers in the history of this venerable institution. Since the age of 23, she has been singing as well-she has a beautiful voice, accented with hints of soul. She has played with renowned artists such as Pat Metheny and Joe Lovano and in 2008, released her second solo album, Esperanza. followed by Chamber Music Society (2010) and Radio Music Society (2012).