Claudio Cruz began the violin studies in his childhood, under the mentorship of his father, the luthier João Cruz. Later, with Erich Lenninger and Maria Vischnia, he developed his instrument technique, and with George Olivier Toni, advanced in the musical theory and conducting areas, establishing himself as one of the greatest musicians of his generation.

He acted as the conductor of the Orchestra of the Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro, the Symphonic Orchestra of Ribeirão Preto and Campinas. He has been honored with many awards such as the Latin Grammy, São Paulo Association of Art Critics (APCA), Carlos Gomes Award, Bravo Award and a nomination on the 2012 Grammy Awards.

He was the concertmaster of the São Paulo State Symphonic Orchestra (OSESP) for twenty-four years. He is currently first violin in the Carlos Gomes Quartet, conductor and musical director of the São Paulo State Youth Orchestra, in addition to acting as a soloist and guest conductor in important orchestras in Brazil, Europe, Asia and the United States.