listen to celestino

Mario Celestino’s mission is to take the audience on a musical and spiritual journey that connects them to his South American heritage. Having travelled Australia widely, played in festivals on the three continents and studied jazz improvisation, Mario Celestino carries many influences with which the audiences connect, fusing elements of modern jazz, funk, Latin and rock music, along with the richness of his Indigenous Andean heritage. He performs as a solo,duo, trio artist and with a five-piece ensemble of musicians called Celestino Fusion that incorporates his unique traditional Bolivian sound (sikus) panpipes, quenas (flutes) and charango (string instrument) with modern technology to create memorable musical performances.

 I am well versed in the role that music and music therapy can play in enhancing the physical, social, cultural and emotional welfare and safety of people. People well-being determines engagement, participation, enjoyment, accomplishment and thus self-realisation and fulfillment Similarly 

An enchanting journey through the South American Andes (Highlands of South America) workshop participants are introduced to music and the culture of the Indigenous and non-Indigenous habitants. Through the global language of music, Celestino is able to convey his culture to a vast audience. His love of fusion music enables him to communicate and share in a truly unique way. Through this fun and interactive workshop, participants experience a feeling of the ancient culture and joy that this music offers. 

With over 30 years of experience in the music industry, I am a Cairns based performer and teacher possessing considerable expertise with a wide variety of wind instruments. Holding a Bachelor of Pan Flute and performance major from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music at Griffith University and a Post Graduate Certificate in Music Education from the Australian Catholic University, I have considerable experience educating and entertaining at a wide range of venues, including State schools, museums, libraries, community centres and occasionally, performing on the big stage at many events throughout Australia and overseas. Most recently, I was a Recreational Therapist at the Cairns Hospital. 

I can develop a relational platform as a basis for learning and teaching as I have extensive experience in managing a team of musicians. I have done this with each band that I have directed, working and respectfully and effectively with professionals and amateurs from a variety of heritages, ages, experience levels and music tradition. Moreover, I have been the music leader of small ensembles including: Jazz Bossa Nova, World Music and Latin jazz at the Conservatorium Griffith University and participated in the choir.