|
Although Esteban was born close to the shores of New Jersey, his heart belonged
to the island of Puerto Rico where he spent most of his forming years.
Adolescence was key in the future of this musician in the making, thanks to the
guidance of his high school music instructor, a new passion was brewing and a
young Esteban, found himself working “the skins” as a percussionist for the
school band.
Traveling to different places and savoring the sites,
the people and the music of Puerto Rico, Esteban got a taste of life as on the
road and realized that music was his destiny. As an apprentice he was exposed to
the likes of “La Super Orquesta de Puerto Rico.” Not only did he learn the ropes
on stage, he also prepared himself attending the prestigious “Escuela Libre de
Música Matos Paoli.”
The culmination of his studies brought him to
Connecticut where he graduated from the Hartford Conservatory in the Jazz and
Popular music department.
For over a decade, Esteban Arrufatt has dedicated his
efforts to share his love and passion for music, with the younger generations.
Stints at the Hartford Conservatory, Trinity College, The Learning Corridor,
Connecticut Junior Republic and the Guakía Art School have allowed him to impart
his knowledge and sensitivity to children and adolescents alike. Along with his
dedication to teaching, he has cultivated his craft by performing with seasoned
musicians like The Ritchie Ray Orchestra, Daniel Salazar, Ed Fast Home Cooking
Band, Damian Curtis, Ray González, David Giardina, Trío Los Bohemios, Lorena
Garay and many others.
The culmination of his journey or many would say the
beginning of a new one, was the release of his first professional recording;
“Time to Share” a compendium of Classic Latin American songs and new
compositions that belong to Esteban’s creativity. The arrangements and
production of the album was also his.
His contributions to the community and music world have
not gone unnoticed, in September of 2006 Esteban Arrufatt was awarded the
“Hispanic Excellence in Music” distinction at the Bushnell Stage in Hartford, he
shared the night with Eddie Palmieri who was present to celebrate his 50th
anniversary as a Latin Jazz Legend.
Esteban continues to perform with his ensemble;
“Esteban’s Latin Jazz” and has scored music for popular television shows like
“El Show de Analeh” and “Viva Hartford”.
From his small town in New Jersey a “Boricua” had a
dream and his talent, passion and dedication have allowed us to be witnesses of
that dream becoming reality. Esteban Arrufatt is just
getting started.
|
