Today we’d like to introduce you to Amado Espinoza.
Hi Amado, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My first encounter with music happened when I was nine years old. My school teacher gave me a pan flute and assigned us the task of figuring out a melody on it. I took the instrument home, heard a melody on the radio that I liked, and managed to play it on the pan flute. At that moment, I felt like I had superpowers—as if I could play any song I heard.
Years later, I studied at a music conservatory in Bolivia, and upon completing my studies, I decided to travel to various Bolivian towns to learn more about indigenous instruments. Andean music took me to different countries and festivals around the world, eventually leading me to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. I am deeply proud of my roots, and they served as a vital foundation for the start of my artistic career.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The first challenge I faced was a lack of family support, as I am the only musician in my family. Another difficulty arose at the music conservatory; one day, after class, my choir teacher told me I had no ear for music and suggested I change career paths. That was a heavy blow. I saw that I had two options: choose a different career, or work and practice twice as hard to improve my skills. That is exactly what I did—I practiced for 12 to 16 hours a day. In doing so, I managed to overcome my limitations and reach a very high level of musical proficiency.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in Indigenous music from around the world, with a particular focus on Andean music. I take great pride in showcasing and sharing the instruments of the Andes, the associated customs, and the core purpose of Andean culture: a profound connection with Pachamama (Mother Earth).
What sets me apart from other artists is my ability to unite ancestral cultures through music; I craft my own instruments and can play five of them simultaneously. My ultimate goal is to serve as an example to future generations, demonstrating that with dedication, discipline, and a great deal of patience with oneself, one can achieve remarkable things.
Any big plans?
My plans for the future involve leaving a legacy: sharing everything I have learned throughout my 36-year artistic career. I founded an indigenous music school in Bolivia called Yachay Ajayu (“the spirit of knowledge”). My goal is to expand this vision of community-based music creation while preserving the vital wisdom passed down by our ancestors and building musical bridges that unite the diverse cultures of this planet. The aim is to show people that we are all human beings and must support one another unconditionally to create a better society.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amadoespinoza.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amadoespinozamusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amadoespinozam
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmadoEspinoza
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/amado-espinoza-m
