Senior Mathias Sebastian began his musical journey at six years old, starting on the drums. Later on, Sebastian learned cuatro, a traditional Venezuelan instrument, in honor of his culture. His love for the craft grew, and Sebastian took on guitar, his current favorite instrument.
Several teachers helped Sebastian with his guitar lessons, but Sebastian states that he remained self-taught, using tablature. Inspired by his musical abilities, Sebastian also learned to play violin and bass guitar.
“I was 12 or 13, so I didn’t really choose the instruments; I just got the instruments and started playing them. I really liked them, and I got into it, so that’s why I chose to play the instruments I play. I could have switched [to other instruments], but I decided to stay with what I chose because I really liked it,” Sebastian said.
Sebastian showcases his artistic and musical abilities in several ways, playing violin for four years at NC in the orchestra and guitar for four years in the School of Rock. In addition, Sebastian plays in a personal band among his friends, cultivating a community of music-loving individuals. All of these experiences allow Sebastian to share his musical talents with the world as he performs in front of crowds. These performances allow Sebastian to bloom as a musician, as creating music in a collaborative effort motivates him to showcase his talent in front of others and work harder to improve his musical skills.
Sebastian’s father heavily influenced his love of music throughout his life. His parent consistently performed as a DJ at clubs, playing techno when Sebastian grew up and would share their favorite bands and artists with Sebastian. These musicians left a prominent impact on Sebastian’s musical preferences, as his guitar-playing style contains Latin and rock elements. Sebastian’s favorite bands: Mason, Metallica and Pantera, also inspire his style.
With his previous experience performing in front of an audience, Sebastian posts on social media, specifically Instagram. He plans to continue working on his online persona to increase his following and grow his image as a musician. Sebastian also dedicates himself to his social media account, hoping that his effort will allow him to join a popular pre-existing band.
Online, Sebastian mainly posts covers of metal songs, but that does not stop him from creating his own music. Sebastian enjoys writing riffs on guitar and improvising, but does not write his own lyrics yet. In addition, Sebastian likes to participate in taekwondo and works out at the gym, all while maintaining a job at McDonald’s.
“Music makes the world beautiful, interesting and more fun. Music became a passion for me, and it serves as a tool for me to fully enjoy emotions through songs. And [music] is a hobby that serves as a distraction; it has really impacted my life since it gives me the best experiences, whether from the excitement of performing in public or from the emotions that it allows me to feel in my private moments,” Sebastian said.
After high school, Sebastian plans to attend college, majoring in architecture like his family and potentially minoring in music. One aspect of his future remains crystal clear, as Sebastian knows he will continue to create music and showcase his talents.
