Esteban Herrera
Month of the Artist celebrates the valuable contributions artists make to Alberta
Esteban Herrera is a pianist, composer, jazz player, arranger, and music producer. He was born in Mexico City in 1979 and began his music education at the age of 11.
Enrolled the Music Conservatory when he was 16, Herrera studied a bachelor in communication sciences and a bachelor in jazz performance. He has released seven albums as a leader and around 30 as a sideman. Herrera has also traveled with his music to different countries such as USA, Spain, France, England, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Poland, and more, and played in the most representative jazz venues and festivals with musician from all over the world.
Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and learn more at estebanherreramusic.com.
How do you describe yourself as an artist?
I am free. I am honest. Just because my only artistic goal is express my feelings in a transparent way, by using the best technique at my disposal. I am a musician from the bottom of my heart.
What does living a creative life mean to you?
I believe that we just have this moment. We should be celebrating every moment of our lives by doing what we love the most. It is hard sometimes, because it’s not the social establishment, but it worth it. I was born to be a creative musician because I cannot be fine without expressing myself through my music. Composing, arranging and improvising are the three more creative musical activities I can think on, and my favourite by far.
What do you love about Calgary and what is one place you go to find inspiration in Calgary?
About Calgary I love so many details. I love the people, always nice and lovable. The weather, cold as it gets and the beautiful summers. It’s a pretty well-organized city, clean and safe. There’s inspiration all over the place. The Bow River, the open country on the outskirts of town, the beautiful downtown with lots to see and do. And very importantly, all the cultural and artistic festivals happening in summertime. I love them. All that diversity and inclusion.
If you could do one thing this year to make Calgary a better place to live, what would it be?
Enrich art and culture with more options. More offers with more quality. There’s no contemporary jazz of any kind happening here. I play contemporary jazz and I think I can make a great scene here. I’m building that since I arrived here.
What piece of advice would you give to an emerging artist?
Be creative and always look for your personal and unique voice, no matter what is your discipline. The competition is tough out there, but no one can compete against an original voice. This means a lot of work and preparation. It’s a life commitment.
What are you currently working on?
I’m working in my next two albums. Both only original compositions and arrangements by myself. One with my contemporary Latin jazz trio and the other with my vocal quartet, Grandpa’s Paradox. Also, I am teaching and studying as much as I can. Step by step I am returning to playing gigs like before.
About Alberta’s Month of the Artist
September is the Month of the Artist in Alberta, an annual celebration of artists and the value they bring to the province, both socially and economically.
Dedicated by the Government of Alberta, the Month of the Artist is a way to say thank you for making the province a better place to live.
Calgary Arts Development is pleased to share the stories of artists who choose to live and work in Calgary.
Have a story to share? Email us at submissions@calgaryartsdevelopment.com.
