Esteban Alvarez was raised in San Jose, Costa Rica. When his father brought home an electronic keyboard, Esteban’s passion for music started at age 9. This inspired Esteban to learn to play simple melodies and to play by ear. Esteban started his music studies one year later with Prof. Omar Arroyo. Esteban started his studies in Physics and Music at the University of Costa Rica at the age of 18. He also learned basic principles of classical music. He was 20 when he was chosen to organize and conduct the music at the SIVO Music Festival in Central Europe. He was nominated ambassador for culture at Baylor University in his second year. A year later, he received a full scholarship to Baylor University. Esteban studied under Dr. Terry Lynn Hudson, and Dr. Vincent DeFries. Esteban was a pianist in the Jazz Ensemble. He performed with world-renowned artists like Maria Schneider, Jon Faddis and Wycliff Gordon. Esteban was also chosen to take part in the International Mission on Music. This event is celebrated in Eastern Europe. Esteban graduated with honors and was awarded a full scholarship to study in the University of North Texas’ renowned Jazz Studies Program. He studied with Professor Dan Haerle and Stefan Karlsson. Chris Potter, Dave Brubeck and John Abercrombie taught Esteban master classes. During his time at UNT Esteban was a member of several large Jazz Ensembles including the Latin Jazz Ensemble, Caribe Club and John Abercrombie. He also performed during the inaugural International Jazz Festival of Costa Rica. Esteban is a composer and has composed music for small ensembles as well as large ensembles. Esteban composed the songs for the National Peace Program of Costa Rica and the Organization of Costa Rica in 2007 and 2008.
