Arts in Motion

On December 2nd, during Arts in Motion podcast, Nicaraguan musicians Luis Pastor and Adrian Gonzalez Mejia were interviewed by artist Gabriela Esquivel. They offered a unique glimpse into their successful career as musicians inspired by Nicaraguan folklore and traditions. Luis shared his experiences as a songwriter and the story behind several of his songs. Adrian has been working on his new music release. He also shared personal stories about the process becoming a marimba player from a young age. The conversation touched on their experiences collaborating with diverse international artists, and more.

On October 21st, during Arts in Motion podcast, Brazilian jazz pianist, songwriter, composer, and producer Antonio Adolfo was interviewed by artist Gabriela Esquivel and guest co-host Catherine Shapiro. He offered a unique glimpse into his successful career in bossa nova, jazz, and other musical genres. His hit songs have been performed by artists like Sergio Mendez, Shelea and Stevie Wonder, Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass and others. Adolfo shared his experiences of being a pioneer in starting his own record label, the reasons why he became a producer, and the impact about how this impacted his career. He has been working with the same eight members band for several years and with them has performed in various festivals and venues like Rock in Rio, Blue Note Rio, and others. He also shared personal stories about how he became a professional musician since a young age. The conversation touched on his experiences collaborating with diverse international artists like Carlomagno Araya, Jamie Ousley, and more.

Gabriela Esquivel and guest co-host Catherine Shapiro recently hosted an engaging interview with Lisanne Lyons, a renowned American jazz singer, educator, and multi-talented musician, on her radio show "Arts in Motion." During the conversation, which aired on October 14th, 2024, Esquivel and Shapiro explored Lisanne's musical journey, her influences, and her contributions to the jazz cultural landscape. The discussion highlighted Lisanne's experience as a jazz vocalist for the Air Force jazz band and many other musical performances. Listeners were treated to insights into Lisanne's live performances. This episode not only celebrated Lisanne's artistry but also aimed to inspire a deeper appreciation for local music among the audience.

In a recent radio interview on "Arts in Motion," hosts Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro engaged with Puerto Rican percussionist, band leader, and producer Juan Picorelli. The discussion delved into Picorelli's extensive musical journey, highlighting his early beginnings in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where he started playing drums at the age of four. Picorelli shared insights into his role as the musical director for renowned artist Víctor Manuelle and his experiences collaborating with various artists, including Aretha Franklin. The interview offered a glimpse into the life and career of a versatile musician dedicated to Latin percussion.

The interview with guitarist Leo Quintero, conducted by host Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro at Arts in Motion on 101.9 Omega Radio, delves into Quintero's musical journey and influences. Quintero, known for his compositions, arrangements, and productions, shares insights into his creative process and experiences in the music industry. The discussion highlights his collaborations and performances, including his work with renowned jazz musicians such as Chick Corea and Arturo Sandoval. Also his collaborations with musicians in the pop-music industry, such as Ricky Martin, Franco de Vita, and many more. The interview provides a comprehensive look at Quintero's contributions to the music world.

On September 26th, during the Arts in Motion radio show, host Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro had the pleasure of interviewing Costa Rican singer-songwriter Guadalupe Urbina. Urbina shared her inspirations and discussed how she weaves personal and cultural narratives into her songs. The conversation highlighted Urbina’s rich musical heritage, her unique blend of Costa Rican folk music, and her experiences creating music abroad. Reflecting about her deep connection to her homeland and its issues, the interview also delved into her commitment to women, and social/environmental causes. Through her heartfelt and thought-provoking music, Urbina captivated the hosts and listeners alike, offering a profound look into her artistic vision and her impact on the music scene.

On September 9th, during the Arts in Motion radio show, host Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro welcomed Venezuelan musicians Eugenia Méndez and Saúl Vera for a compelling interview. The conversation explored Méndez and Vera's distinct musical styles, which fuse Venezuelan folk traditions with jazz and other contemporary influences. Méndez, both a pianist and vocalist, discussed her efforts to preserve and innovate Venezuelan folk music, while Vera offered insights into his compositional techniques and his expertise with the bandola and mandolina, two traditional Venezuelan instruments. The interview also highlighted their roles as founders and educators at Kalos Music and Art School in Florida, offering listeners a glimpse into their dedication to music education and cultural enrichment.

On September 2nd, during the Arts in Motion radio show, host Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro sat down for an engaging interview with Costa Rican singer-songwriter José Canas. They explored his musical journey, creative process, and the cultural influences that shape his sound. Canas, known for blending traditional Costa Rican rhythms with modern folk and Latin pop elements, shared personal anecdotes about his career and the passion behind his socially conscious lyrics. The conversation highlighted his commitment to using music as a tool for storytelling and connection, while also celebrating his contributions to the Latin American music scene. The interview radiated warmth and insight, giving listeners a deeper appreciation for Canas' artistry.

On August 26th, during Arts in Motion radio show, Colombian pianist Laura Lambuley joined host Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro for an engaging interview that explored her dynamic career and musical journey. Lambuley shared her passion for blending classical piano with Latin American rhythms, highlighting how her Colombian heritage plays a central role in shaping her sound. She spoke about her creative process, her influences, and the importance of emotional expression in her performances. The interview offered listeners a view of her artistic vision and commitment to cultural representation through music.

On August 19th, during Arts in Motion radio show, North American songwriter and producer Trey Bruce was interviewed by host Gabriela Esquivel and co-host Catherine Shapiro. He offered a unique glimpse into his successful career in country music. Known for writing hit songs for artists like Randy Travis and Faith Hill, Bruce discussed the evolution of his songwriting process, the impact of Nashville’s music scene on his career, and the challenges of staying creative in a competitive industry. He also shared personal stories behind some of his biggest hits and the importance of storytelling in his music. The conversation touched on his experiences collaborating with diverse artists, and how his passion for songwriting continues to inspire his work.