Due to our busy schedules, my brother Cristobal and I barely have time to speak to each other. Since he lives in Boston and I am here in Los Angeles, we only see each other a few times a year now.
Cristobal is a cellist at Berklee College of Music, taking the music world by storm. He explains to me his triumphs these past two years, and the challenges he has experienced living on his own.
What is your major?
"I am doing a dual major in professional cello performance, contemporary writing, and production. I am extremely passionate about all of these aspects of music."
What School?
"Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts."
What do you do?
"I use music as a social tool in an attempt to provide the listener with an escape from reality. We all need to disconnect sometimes and I think music is the best way to relax and feel like a part of something much larger than life."
How has cello impacted your life?
"Playing the cello was my introduction to the world of music, but most importantly, it was the first step in a path of self-discovery, and healing. Specifically in regards to overcoming struggles of self-worth and the countless side-effects of experiencing my parent's divorce."
What's it like being away from home, and how do you like living in Boston?
"Being away from home provides a sense of clarity and just the right amount of sadness- the perfected recipe for artistic and creative productivity."
"That being said, the emotional ties I have to my family and friends(and certain Baja/socal exclusive restaurants like Lolitas and In-n-out) creates a longing for me to go back home, almost strong enough to make me cave way too frequently."
Describe yourself in 3 words!
"Open. Hungry. Absurdist."
What has been the most fun experience you have had so far?
"My band and I had just finished a night at the studio during finals week, and in classic Cristobal fashion, I had a project due in a couple of hours; in order to get the project done, I realized I had to stay up after my jam session. (it had ended at 2am) and basically write an entire rap track!"
"So my bandmates and I rapped over a beat I sloppily produced in half an hour and debuted it in front of my entire class- it was a hype track in tribute to the teacher of that class. Needless to say, I got an A. I have been winging everything my whole life. NO regrets!"
Worst Experience?
"The B line which is Boston's form of public transportation. Enough said!"
Who is your favorite musician at the moment?
"Jacob Collier. He is the future of jazz and contemporary arrangement."
How has it been living with roommates for the first time ever?
"Living with roommates was essential to my personal development and I had fun living and getting to know people from other parts of the nation. At times it was challenging due to conflicting morals and personalities, but I have learned how to live in harmony with people whose mindsets are different from mine...alone time is definitley appreciated and well-spent."
Any advice for musicians interested in auditioning and attending Berklee?
"Make sure to present yourself with confidence and get ready to meet the top young musicians of the world. If you believe in yourself and you show it, you already have an advantage. Don't let the nerves take over. I was extremely nervous throughout the audition process,but I stayed focused and passionate! Best of luck."
(Cristobal accompanying his bandmate, Brandon Hassan)
Thanks, Cris!
