Author: Charlotte Evans
At a time when much of the world is in turmoil, musician Antonio Carnota says he feels deeply that it is his calling to bring joy and unity to people through music. Growing up underprivileged in a small town in Spain, Antonio says he learned firsthand the incredible power of music to uplift the human heart and soul in difficult circumstances. He shared some of what drives his passion and purpose today as he spoke with DragonRidge Communications Director Charlotte Evans on the heels of his debut performance in MacDonald Highlands.
Q: For someone who is not yet familiar with your work, how would you describe yourself as an artist?
A: As an artist, I treat my profession as a “gentleman,” so I always try to remain respectful of my talent, music and audiences. I have my own unique style in my arrangements and performances and people can easily relate. That gives me the ability to really connect with everyone from every walk of life.
Q: What do you hope people will feel or experience when they hear you play?
A: I hope they feel and experience my deep passion and desire to share love, hope and joy through my music.
Q: Do you enjoy performing and composing equally?
A: I’m inspired by how much music touches and connects people spiritually and emotionally. It truly is the universal language! When I compose, I’m able to express my thoughts and emotions in such a way that moves people even without the presence of words. Performing allows me to give music my interpretation and expression to inspire and entertain. Both composing and performing give me a lot of satisfaction.
Q: At what age did you start to take an interest in music?
A: At the age of 4, a pianist named Richard Clayderman came to Spain. My mother and grandmother saw him perform and fell in love with his music. After seeing how his performance brought them so much joy, I knew I wanted to become a pianist to bring the same joy to many people. Growing up in Spain, I dedicated a lot of my time to practicing the piano. It was a little complicated because living in the small town Galicia didn’t offer many opportunities to pursue a career as a pianist.
Q: Who inspired you musically along the way?
A: I enjoyed classical music and was inspired by composers such as Bach, Beethoven and Mozart. In more contemporary music, I’m inspired by The Beatles and Frank Sinatra.
Q: You moved to America recently. How has your experience been so far?
A: I’ve learned a lot about different kinds of music and my experiences have helped me grow as a person. I discovered more opportunities to expand my career, but also the challenges of being in the music and entertainment industry.
Q: Where have you performed in the world?
A: I’ve performed in many countries in Europe, Mexico, Panama, and across the United States. I came to the United States with the goal of finding a Producer, Manager or Agent who would help me advance my career.
Q: If there was one venue in the world where you would like to play, what would that be?
A: I would love to perform at the White House.
Q:Music can be a tough gig. What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians?
A: Appreciate that your talent is a God-given “gift” that you can use to make people happy. It’s an awesome responsibility! Stay passionate and chase your dreams as a musician. Learn the business side of your profession and remain humble and grateful for your successes.
Q: What challenges you today as an artist?
A: It’s always a challenge to see how I can continue to improve my performances for my current fans, while remaining fresh and relevant to attract new people to the emotions that music offers.
Q: What should people to know about you that they might not think to ask?
A: My family and I suffered the tragedy of my sister’s death when she was only 16 and I was 19. Music helped us get through those dark times. I believe many people today are going through their own difficult times. If I can give them even a short period of joy with my music, then my God-given gift will be a blessing for others. It’s what brings me the greatest pride and joy as a musician, seeing the happiness my music brings to people.
