Today we’d like to introduce you to María Eugenia León.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Music has always been part of my life, and without realizing it, it was my way to channel emotions. I continued performing piano and started composing music; later, I attended the Music Conservatory in The Canary Islands. Eventually, I realized music was my path, I couldn’t live without it, and then I attended Berklee College of Music with an European Tour Scholarship. After graduating, I moved to Los Angeles, where I have written film and concert music as well as performed/conducted music. Being my music showcased in Festivals like: Independent Filmmakers Showcase (at Regal cinemas L.A. in Downtown LA) and Beverly Hills Film Festival (showcased at the Chinese Theater), and also outside of the U.S., in festivals like: Cannes, Roma CinemaDoc, Berlin International Cinefest, etc. I have been nominated for best film composer in short film category award at: Fimucité, Jerry Goldmisth Awards and International Sound & Film Music Festival. I have won the second prize at The Canary Islands Choral Composition Contest, and have premiered my Symphonic Band piece “Oleaje” with the Gran Canaria’s Women Band at the prestigious Alfredo Kraus Auditorium. In Los Angeles, I have premiered my choir music with the Honor Choir (Stairway of the Stars Concert in Santa Monica) and Elemental Choir.
Please tell us about your art.
I write music and lyrics. Depending on the project, I might do full on orchestral music, or piano music, vocal music or a combination of the previous options. My main instrument is piano and my second is voice, that’s why both instruments are the base of my compositions, one way or another.
In terms of the inspiration or message, for me, all music created comes from feelings and understanding the world around us. When I work in a film project or collaborate with other musicians, I need to get under the skin of the director/musician and their emotions, what they want to share with the world. When I work on my music, there’s always a story behind each piece, it’s a learning experience each time. The main goal for me is to help people with my music somehow, to help reset our souls in the nonstop world we live in. In order to do so, I try to be open to different opportunities, as long as the projects resonate with my values. This way, I have been able to not only create my own projects, but also, to collaborate with film directors, other composers, choir directors, a wonderful heavy metal band, a symphonic band, etc.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
I think that it’s important to make sure you are outside and live experiences, otherwise, what are you going to write about? How can you have any inspiration if you are sitting at home all day? For me, it’s fundamental to explore all the different aspects that the city can offer. For example, from being in nature, to go to as many concert opportunities and film screenings as possible. There are plenty of events happening constantly, and it just takes a little effort to get yourself connected to the community. As a result, you can have an enrichment in your own art by simply absorbing the art created around you and collaborating with others.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
People can support my work by listening to my music in streaming platforms and following me on social media (@mariaeleonmusic). At the moment, I have different projects that are on development and I will announce them as soon as the music is ready, so it’s best to be connected through social media so we can be in touch when that happens.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mariaeugenialeon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariaeleonmusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariaeLeonMusic/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MariaeLeonMusic
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0D98AyDzY2OVGTSRD23qJF?si=WicJtie9QcekKRzHL3sbgw
Image Credit:
Vladislav Khesin
Gabriel Legua
María Eugenia León
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