Today we’d like to introduce you to Javier Amezcua.
Javier, before we jump into specific questions about your work, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Growing up, I was a very troubled child with no productive or creative means to express myself with. Feeling misdirected during my youth, however, allowed me to meander my way to some very charitable people that would foster my unforeseen path into music. Ms. Gonzales was one of those people.
During the 5th grade, Gonzales was a school teacher at Glen View Elementary, She was a very fun and lively person, occasionally bringing her guitar and catching the attention of the morning foot traffic before class started. Having heard enough of her playing, I finally built up the courage to ask her to become my guitar teacher; She was excited to have me as her first music student. The next couple of months were full of music lessons and great memories until I had to move schools halfway through the year back to Central School elementary.
Unfortunately, after the move, I didn’t have my own guitar to practice on and my family was too financially challenged to support me in such ways; Music would have to be put on a hiatus.
One day during school, my former 4th-grade teacher Mrs. Peterson, asked me to meet her in the classroom for lunch; She had a special gift for me. To my excitement, she was giving me her first guitar given to her by her Father. She gave it to me with the understanding that if I had no use for that guitar, I would give it up to someone that really needed it. After that moment, I brought my guitar to school everyday to show my appreciation to Mrs. Peterson.
In 2011, I found my next guitar teacher, Gary Stewart, at a local music store called The Music Playce. Gary taught me how I could share music with virtually anyone, no matter their age or background. I was first introduced to Gary by the owner Jack Brooks. Jack also took me under his wing and gave me responsibilities around the shop. Within a month, I performed for my first gig at Vinz Wine and Bar in Escondido with players five times my age.
I spent the next six years at the Music Playce, visiting the shop everyday and offering a helping hand whenever I could. I was there through thick and thin, Jack Brooks passing away, change in ownership, and the shop finally closing down. During my time there, I discovered my passion for teaching music, I gained experience working the sales floor and I learned how to repair instruments. On top of all this, I dedicated my time to teaching myself the music production side of things, including photography, videography, and recording. I love integrating these skills into my lessons. I think it is important to offer students the behind the scenes look on what it takes to record and produce quality content.
Since my time at the Music Playce, I have had the opportunity to play in dozens of bands for venues all around San Diego. As a working musician, I have learned to wear many hats. From wedding photographer, wedding musician, studio musician, gigging musician, to music teacher, I manage to stay very busy. I currently perform as an acoustic duo with my girlfriend, Leah Keane, a folk singer/songwriter from San Diego. We have been hired for weddings, released original music onto major digital platforms such as iTunes and Spotify, and just recently performed live for KUSI San Diego News.
I can’t imagine how my life would be without music. I am forever grateful to all the people who supported and encouraged my passion. I hope to be able to invoke that passion in others.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There were certainly many roadblocks put in my way. Growing up without a father, my family and I moved many times and financially struggled. Had it not been for the teachers who stepped into my life to give me structure and accountability, I do not think I would be as successful as I am today.
Can you give our readers some background on your music?
Collaboration in the music community is key. That’s why I enjoy being able to offer fellow musicians so many skills. Want to record a demo? No problem. Need professional photos for your social media? Let’s do it. Shoot a video? Learn a new song? Learn a new instrument? Instrument needing repair? I strive to be as accessible and useful for my students and fellow musicians as possible.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me, is taking something you are passionate about and applying it to your life in such a way that it brings you joy without taking away your stability.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.javieramezcua.com
- Email: info@javieramezcua.com
- Instagram: @javier_ame2cua
- Other: leahkeane.com
Image Credit:
David Pradel. Javier Amezcua
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