Name: Miguel de Maria
Age: 44
Title: Musician, Owner of Elegant Spanish Guitar
Married/Single: married
Kids: one daughter
City you live in: Tempe
A typical day in my life includes…
practicing guitar, reading, writing, taking care of my beloved family, diabetic dog and giant goldfish.
I was born…
Nueva Jersey, but Honolulu is my adopted hometown.
My favorite thing about Arizona…
the weather. I would rather be hot and dry than cold and wet.
I’m listening to…
flamenco, at least today.
My family…
we spend most of our time together. On purpose.
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be…
drawing a blank. There are millions of fascinating people in the world.
One thing I cannot live without…
food. I like it very much!
When I was younger, I wanted to be…
rich.
I’m inspired by…
people who overcome pain, because I am a big wimp, and those who have babies, fight disease or risk themselves for a good cause amaze me.
The one person who motivates me is…
me.
If I could change anything in the world, it would be…
the lust for power, which is at the root of so much misery.
The perfect day would be…
vacationing with my family.
My first job was…
Official T-Shirt Folder at Crazy Shirts in Honolulu.
My favorite escape…
nature – hiking on a mountain or in a forest. Preferably somewhere with ancient trees or running water.
My life…
has been very random, but I really can’t complain about how it’s turned out!
I’m currently working on…
some flamenco pieces, some wedding songs, my writing.
Always…
family, food and some solitude for this introvert.
Never…
forget that other people are people too, with their challenges, strengths, loves, dislikes and hopes.
Favorite Quote…
“Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.” – Thomas Jefferson
Biggest Dream…
to live and die content.
My Pet Peeve(s)…
other people playing loud videos on their phones, propaganda, exclusion.
More about me…
I’ve been playing guitar for weddings and events in Scottsdale and Phoenix for over a decade. “It’s like going on a vacation to Spain or Mexico when you play,” one of my clients told me. That’s exactly what I’m trying to do! It’s the sound of an acoustic guitar, played with the fingers–elegant, romantic, and confident.
I’ve studied several styles of music. Classical guitar is complex, ornate, and aristocratic. Flamenco is direct, earthy, and rhythmic. Bossa Novas have a gentle sway. Our music here in America has its own memorable qualities. The music I play is a mixture: I call it “Spanish guitar” because most of my repertoire is related to Spain, either by composer, sound, or history. It goes well with the ambiance of the Southwest.
When I play for an event, I make sure to dress sharp and elegantly. People know that I’m a musician when they see me. My sound systems are powerful, accurate, and pro-quality, the same as found on concert stages or used by professional AV companies.
My focus is on supporting the event with my music. I keep the volume reasonable so people can talk normally, but still enjoy the ambiance. It’s about creating feelings for the guests: a touch of excitement and adventure with old-world elegance.
Having been a full-time musician here in Phoenix since 2004, I’ve performed at the vast majority of event venues for weddings, corporate events, and parties, as well as private homes. One couple bought my plane ticket to Seattle for her wedding. Another couple flew me in their private jet to Lake Tahoe. I’ve performed for up to 400 guests and for as as intimate as two people. Some planners and agencies I’ve been working with for over 15 years. The foundation of it all is being respectful, reliable and easy to work with.
