Esteban Copete

Esteban Copete - 2014 OneBeat Fellow
Photo Credit: John Doe

Marimba player, Saxophonist

Santiago de Cali, Colombia

Esteban Copete is an el Chocó, Colombia-based performer. Growing up in el Chocó, Esteban grew attuned to the rapid cultural shifts developing in urban centers in Colombia, and became fascinated with the preservation and evolution of indigenous culture. While teaching himself traditional instruments, such as marimba de chonta, Esteban studied saxophone at University of Valle Music School and abroad at the Bellas Artes Conservatory, Mexico. In 2008, Esteban founded Kinteto Pacífo, an ensemble incorporating Colombian folk music, traditional Afro-Caribbean rhythms and contemporary electrified instrumentation. The group’s music embraces positive pacifist message and addresses urban violence and other issues facing their community. Esteban Copete was formerly the director of Grupo Ancestros, an award-winning bossa nova, jazz and rock-influenced group.