Interview with musicians Nieves and Maite on their upcoming performance at IS Ruhr Unplugged “Noche Latina”

Daria: Could you briefly introduce yourselves?

Nieves: My name is Nieves González, and I am a Performing Arts and Spanish teacher at IS Ruhr. I completed a Professional Piano Diploma at the Conservatory and studied Primary Education with a specialization in Music.

Maite: I’m Maite, 35 years old, I’m originally from Cuba and I’m a violinist. I’m married and have two children, and music has been my passion for as long as I can remember.

Daria: What is your favourite type of music to play?

Nieves: I like playing different types of music depending on my mood, especially classical music and jazz.

Maite: I think every kind of music has its own charm, but I especially enjoy playing classical music and Latin music from my home country.

Daria : Have you had any other official performances?

Nieves: Yes, I performed several times in Granada, at the Manuel de Falla Auditorium and the Caja Rural Auditorium, and I also performed here last year. So excited to return once again to the IS Ruhr stage!

Maite: Yes, I have performed at many different events, festivals and occasions, whether as part of an orchestra, as a soloist, in duos, and in a variety of other performances. Can’t wait for this special event coming up on 8 October!

Daria: What made you choose your instrument, as compared to others? 

Nieves: I think the piano is a very versatile instrument with a beautiful sound. I feel very comfortable playing any type of music on it, and it also allows me to sing while I play.

Maite: Actually, I didn’t choose the violin at first. I originally wanted to play the piano, but I was told that my hands were not big enough. I was then given the choice between the violin and the cello, and in the end I started playing the violin. So you could say that the violin chose me more than I chose it! But I have never regretted it. I think the violin is a very elegant and expressive instrument, and over time I feel that it really represents me.

Daria: What inspired you to start playing music?

Nieves: Music has always been my passion, ever since I was very little. I was already dancing and singing before I was two years old.

Maite: My father loved music and he was the person who motivated and encouraged me to follow this path. But from a very young age, I already knew that music was something very special to me. Music is what gives colour to my life.

Daria: What are you going to play at the Unplugged? 

Nieves: Maite and I are going to perform Latin pieces in different styles.

Maite: We are going to play a mix of different musical styles, with a special focus on Latin and Cuban music from different periods and generations.

Daria: What are you looking forward to at the Unplugged?

Nieves: I would love to connect with the audience and convey emotion. The aim is for the audience to have a good time and enjoy themselves too!

Maite: I’m really looking forward to sharing my music and bringing it closer to the audience. I hope it will be a beautiful evening full of music, emotion and special moments.

You can see Nieves and Maite live at IS Ruhr Unplugged on 8 October. Come along! We are looking forward to seeing you.