Few artists have had a bigger impact on contemporary Spanish guitar than Ottmar Liebert. In this conversation, we explore how he developed his unique sound, weathered criticism from purists, and stayed committed to his vision.

Ottmar shares why he never pursued traditional Flamenco. Instead of trying to fit into an established category, he trusted his instincts and created a sound that resonated with millions of listeners around the world.

Whether you're a fan of Ottmar's music or not, I encourage you to listen. His story is far more nuanced than many people realize, and I suspect you'll come away with a greater appreciation for the journey, the mindset, and perhaps have a few misconceptions debunked along the way.

🔗 David Chiriboga Official Links:

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🔗 Ottmar Liebert Website:

https://ottmarliebert.com

In this episode of the Spanish Guitar Mastermind, I sit down with coach Mikey Weiss for a conversation that goes a little outside my usual topics , and honestly, I even debated doing this episode.

However, health and fitness are topics I’m just as deeply passionate about as music, especially because I’ve seen so many great musicians struggle physically and mentally, and even pass away too soon. As performers and artists, we often dedicate endless hours to mastering our craft while ignoring the habits that actually allow us to perform at our best long-term.

In this conversation, Mikey and I talk about fitness, discipline, mindset, consistency, habits, and the mental side of self-improvement, from my perspective as a musician and his as an expert coach. You’ll see how many of the philosophies behind training the body directly apply to training as a musician.

Whether you’re a guitarist, musician, or artist who has neglected your health and fitness, or you simply want a push to step into the gym for the first time, you may find this episode helpful both on and off the stage.

Mikey Weiss

https://linktr.ee/mindmatterlifestyle

David Chiriboga Music

https://linktr.ee/DavidChiribogaMusic

In this conversation, world-renowned Spanish guitarist Pablo Sainz Villegas and I explore what it truly means to perform for everyday real people in the real world, not just for musicians or concert hall-goers. We talk about understanding your audience, finding purpose as a performer, and developing the discipline to grow while still being present and enjoying performances.

At the heart of it all is a simple truth: emotion and impact matter more than the level of a piece or virtuosity of a performer, and that’s what beautiful music is really about.

Pablo also shares the strategies that work for him when it comes to regular practice and concert preparation, even amidst a busy touring schedule.

“It’s safe to call him the global ambassador of Spanish Guitar” - Billboard

Click here for more info, tour dates, social media links: 

➡️ Pablo Sainz Villegas Official Links

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 Guitarist Johannes Linstead — Obsession, Resilience, and Reinvention

In this episode, I talk with renowned guitarist Johannes Linstead, known for his fiery blend of Spanish and Latin guitar and his chart-topping albums. Johannes shares how he overcame Focal Dystonia (hand condition), how he pivoted to rebuild his playing, and why being “obsessed” with your instrument can be the secret ingredient to mastery.

We also dive into the business side of being an artist, with sage advice for guitarists and musicians looking to turn their passion into a sustainable life long career.

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More practice doesn’t always mean better results.

One of the most common mistakes musicians—and even seasoned performers—make is prioritizing quantity over quality.

This month on The Spanish Guitar Mastermind, I’m joined by Laido Dittmar: world-class circus artist/juggler and author of The Art of Practice. Laido shares his journey from frustrated student, spending 8–10 hours a day with minimal results, to achieving significant progress in a fraction of that time, and eventually becoming a renowned record breaking juggler.

Today, he helps artists, athletes, and performers double their growth by redesigning how they practice.

If you’re ready to practice smarter and get more out of every session, don’t miss this episode.

Now streaming on all major platforms.

🔗 Laido Dittmar: The Art Of Practice 

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Performing for private events can be a very lucrative and fulfilling role for musicians. Jim Perona, a thriving full-time musician and author of “How to Book Gigs as a Solo Musician”, specializes in this area. With over 15 years as a professional guitarist performing for private events, Jim shares many valuable factors for booking well paid gigs, building a strong client base, and overcoming common obstacles that hold musicians back. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your music career in the private event space, this episode dives into both the essential foundations and the often-overlooked factors that can lead to long-term success. 

🔗 Check out Jim Perona’s New Book: How to Book Gigs As A Solo Musician

🔗 Jim Perona Official Website 

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Do you really know how to practice? In this episode we discuss the top 5 practice habits that every guitarist must avoid. Discover science-backed strategies to save hours, accelerate progress, and finally break through the barriers holding you back—all while practicing less! This episode is essential for any guitarist looking to practice smarter, not harder.

For more on Diego Alonso, follow him on Youtube & Instagram

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In this episode, I want to share something I personally dealt with for years: Performance Anxiety, also known as stage fright, which can affect anyone from amateur to professional musicians alike.

I share my personal experiences, from how badly it affected me to how I overcame it. I reveal my top three strategies that helped me overcome intense performance nerves and memory blocks, allowing me to perform with full confidence. Whatever type of musician you are, I’ll guide you through my practical tips and inspiration to help you overcome your rational and irrational fears and take control of the stage.

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In this episode we deep dive into how finding your true purpose goes way beyond playing music or being an artist. Jade Simmons, a virtuosic concert pianist who originally devoted her artistry to performing concerts on renown stages, now devotes her artistry to helping thousands of people discover their true purpose while still using her musical talent. Jade shares her journey from the stage to becoming an expert guide for personal growth and self-discovery.

Jade’s insights might just make you rethink what really drives you. Is your “passion” really your true purpose? Get ready to ask some new questions and explore your true purpose!

Jade Simmons: Official Website

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Do you truly know what real Flamenco is? Are the Gipsy Kings Flamenco? This episode of The Spanish Guitar Mastermind dives deep into the origins of Flamenco with renowned Flamenco artist Jose Moreno. As a third-generation Flamenco (singer/dancer/percussionist/guitarist), Jose sheds light on the art form's history, true definition and cultural significance, dispelling common misconceptions and misinterpretations. Flamenco enthusiasts and anyone curious about Spanish culture won't want to miss this insightful conversation.


For more information on Jose Moreno:
Jose Moreno Flamenco

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To Get You Playing Spanish Guitar!