In this episode, Chris Santillán, musical director, pianist, and educator, proves how far a formal musical education can take you, if you “know your why”.
Chris has spent his career telling stories through music, on tour and at sea, and he walks us through some of the highlights of his career as MD.
He tells us why he studied to be an ER doctor (and what caused him to change career paths), whether or not “the show must go on” is just something old fogies believe, and how he feels about being part of the bourgeoning music scene in the UAE and educating its next generation of performers.
If you’re considering a career in musical theatre, or looking to study performing arts in UAE, you need to hear what Chris has to say.
00:00:00 – Introducing Chris Santillán
00:02:22 – Interview
00:39:59 – Lightning Round
00:45:35 – Live music: Dancing Queen (ABBA)
00:49:39 – Credits
I’m Lady J (onstage) and in the two decades that I’ve been a full-time gigging musician I’ve played nearly 3000 shows with my husband-slash-guitarist-slash-business partner. We live in Dubai with our two kids, and we continue to perform hundreds of shows per year.
I firmly believe that there is nothing like being in the room with the person making the music that moves you.
Live music matters.
Whether you’re hoping to get your first gig, looking to get more gigs, or looking to make your gigging more fulfilling and financially rewarding, this is a place to get insights and practical advice from people who believe live music matters.
I’m happy you’re here.