Today we’d like to introduce you to Oscar Quesada.
Oscar, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I got involved in music in the fourth grade. I played violin, sang in the chorus, and performed in a steel pan ensemble. After a year of violin, I switched to the cello which has been my main instrument ever since. I went to Florida State University in Tallahassee for my degree in Commercial Music. That’s when I met my boyfriend and musical partner, Jay Thomas, and we formed a band called Bluejay with his sister Zjolie.
As Bluejay, we released two albums and toured Florida and the US east coast. We all moved back to Miami and were named “Best Band 2015” by Miami New Times. I joined the staff at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, starting as a volunteer and working my way up to Programming Manager. Recently, I produced, recorded and mixed an album with Jay Thomas called “Fantasma Tropical.” I was also featured on Zjolie’s debut single “Miami Girlz,” released last month.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’ve chosen paths that led me towards music and not necessarily comfort or familiarity. I switched schools in fourth grade to enroll in a music program. I was the first and only of my siblings to move away for college. When deciding between buying a car or a cello, I chose the cello. It’s still my only cello, and it has afforded me opportunities to perform and travel. My brother used to make fun of me sounding like a “dying cat” while practicing, but I didn’t give into the pressure of quitting.
Growing up gay and the youngest of three boys in a Cuban-American household, I struggled with conforming to traditions and values. Music was part of our heritage, but it was not considered a serious career choice in my family. I hated the idea of needing “a backup plan.” I taught myself how to overcome feelings of doubt and incompetence. I had to be fearless. I had to take control of my own life.
Can you give our readers some background on your music?
I’m a multi-instrumentalist specializing in performing, producing, recording and mixing. I’m known for creating lush string arrangements that add layers of dark, beautiful orchestration to songs. I also play keyboard, percussion and sing harmonies. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with electronic beats and sequencing in my live performances with Jay Thomas.
My background is in classical music, conducting symphony orchestras in school. Mixing music is like being an orchestra conductor. I have to get the right balance, make sure everyone is heard, and that it all fits together nicely. I enjoy collaborations. You can hear me playing on the album ¡MURSDAY! (by ¡Mayday! x Murs) on a song called “Here” which has over 1.5 million views on YouTube. Working with artists of that caliber, in a different genre, is one of my proudest accomplishments.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
If you want to do something in Miami, there’s always a way to find out how to achieve it. There’s always someone to help you or collaborate with. There are still challenges ahead, following my instincts with music, while finding how it fits into the scene.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oscarquesada/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oquesada
Image Credit:
Blue Shirt – Juan Martinez
White Shirt – Juan Martinez
Pink Shirt – Giovanni Ceron
Live at Las Rosas – Danny Beard
With Zjolie – Daniel Motter
Live at Harvey Milk Festival – Harvey Milk Festival
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