We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gabe Treiyer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gabe below.
Alright, Gabe thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
Certainly! As a session musician, my journey towards earning a full-time living from my creative work has been a testament to perseverance and passion. It was not an overnight success story, but rather a series of significant steps and milestones that propelled me forward.
My musical odyssey began in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I was born. At the age of 11, I discovered my love for the guitar, and it quickly became a cherished companion. From those early moments, I held a deep-seated dream of collaborating with the very musicians who adorned the posters on my walls. Fuelled by this ambition, I immersed myself in the local music scene, playing with various bands and honing my craft.
It was during this time that the universe bestowed upon me a remarkable opportunity: joining Gene Loves Jezebel for their South American tour in 2010.
Shortly thereafter, fate smiled upon me once again. I received an unexpected call, inviting me to become the music director for Bobby Kimball, a six-time Grammy award-winning vocalist from the iconic band Toto. This marked another pivotal milestone in my career, This experience was a turning point, introducing me to the grand stages and the electric energy of performing for audiences of over 10,000 people. The exhilaration and connection I felt in those big arenas confirmed my calling as a session musician.
Building on these incredible opportunities, I continued to foster connections and expand my network, just as I had always done. Through genuine relationships and a dedication to my craft, I found myself embraced by a stream of gigs, recording sessions, and touring opportunities alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry. Each collaboration further enriched my musical journey and solidified my reputation as a trusted and sought-after session musician.
Looking back, I recognize that the process of earning a full-time living from my creative work required patience, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to my art. While there were moments of uncertainty and challenges along the way, I wouldn’t change a thing. Every step, every milestone, and every experience contributed to my growth as a musician and shaped the artist I am today.
If I were to offer advice to my past self, armed with the knowledge I have now, I would encourage a balanced perspective of the journey. Patience is key, as success in the creative field often takes time to materialize. However, I would also emphasize the importance of strategic networking, seizing opportunities when they arise, and remaining open to collaborations that push the boundaries of my own creativity.
In essence, my path as a “renowned” session musician reflects a deep love for music, unwavering dedication, and a spirit of humility. I am grateful for every step of this extraordinary journey, and I continue to approach each new musical endeavor with gratitude, passion, and an unyielding commitment to the craft I hold dear.
And definitely, having been born in a different country than the US, made the journey a lot harder, but definitely i’m enjoying every little step up in my career.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
It’s a pleasure to have the opportunity to introduce myself. I’m Gabe Treiyer, a musician who feels incredibly grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have shaped my musical journey. I’ve been fortunate to work with world renowned artists and be involved in exciting projects,
My passion for music started at a young age, and it was through dedicated practice and unwavering determination that I honed my skills on the guitar. As I immersed myself in the industry, I had the privilege of collaborating with an array of talented Grammy award winners and multi-platinum artists. Working alongside these incredible musicians has been a incredible experience, as their expertise and creativity continuously inspire me to push the boundaries of my craft.
My versatility as a musician has allowed me to adapt to various genres, and my keen ear for sound enables me to bring a unique perspective to every project I’m involved in. As a session player, my goal is to be a vital component of any musical endeavor, elevating the music and helping artists achieve their vision.
In addition to my collaborations with esteemed artists, I have also released an instrumental solo album titled “Unsung Hero.” The album received great reviews and critical acclaim, reaching listeners worldwide. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my own compositions and connect with audiences on a personal level through my music.
Recently, I was signed by Renaissance Records, who released the debut album of my new project, “TREIYER – Scars (A Journey Through A Lifetime),” in Fall 2021. This album features incredible guest guitar legends and tells a captivating story through music. It’s an honor to work with such talented musicians and to see the positive response from fans.
Every opportunity, collaboration, and project has been a gift, and I deeply appreciate the trust that artists have placed in me. My focus is always on serving the music and contributing to a collective artistic vision.
What I’m most proud of throughout my musical journey is the fact that many of dreams were achieved through my musical career. People often ask me what it takes and what do they need to work as session musician. There’s a lot of things involved, but from my experience, if you want to hire me for a session, I want you to know that my approach is rooted in authenticity and a genuine love for music. When you work with me, you can expect a dedicated professional who will prioritize your artistic vision and bring a unique perspective to your project. I believe in the power of music to connect, inspire, and evoke emotions, and I strive to create meaningful experiences through my work.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive impact through my music and to contribute something of value to the world. I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received on this journey, and I look forward to connecting with more people who share a love for music and a passion for artistic expression.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Allow me to share a story with you:
It was the summer of ’89/’90, a time marked by a series of unfortunate events in my family. My father had passed away a few months earlier, leaving us in a dire financial situation. To add to the challenges, I found myself on crutches , unable to walk for six months due to a hip operation and other complications. At the tender age of 13, music and the guitar became my solace during these trying times.
Once I regained the ability to walk, I proudly displayed my Spanish guitar (my first electric guitar was acquired a couple of years later). Each afternoon, I would set up a tape player in our front yard and play the cassette recording of the Rolling Stones’ “Steel Wheels Tour” radio broadcast from start to finish. In my imagination, the fence separating my house from the neighbor’s transformed into an audience, and I performed on the makeshift stage. I meticulously practiced every move and pose, refining them by studying my reflection in the window glass, determined to achieve the utmost coolness.
As for the neighbors who regarded me with bewildered eyes, their opinions mattered little to me. They were not part of my dream, destined to be left behind as I pursued my aspirations. The path was clear, and I knew I had to study and learn with utmost dedication to prepare myself for what lay ahead. I immersed myself in practice, dedicating nearly eight hours a day, almost every day, to honing my craft.
In due course, opportunities came knocking at my door, and I eagerly embraced them. From that point on, it became a journey of hard work, building connections, and seizing every opportunity that presented itself.
Therefore, when someone tries to convince you that your dreams are impossible or too lofty, I urge you not to lend them your attention. Instead, distance yourself from such negativity. Sometimes, we ourselves are the biggest obstacles we must overcome initially. If the kid from Buenos Aires, who gazed at posters on the wall and yearned to play with Grammy award winners and artists with gold and platinum records, could bring some of those dreams to fruition, then so can you.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Absolutely, there are three main goals that drive me in my music career:
Making a full-time living through my passion for music, ensuring that it remains an integral part of my life until the end. I believe that when we can sustain ourselves doing what we love, it brings immense fulfillment and joy.
Collaborating and performing with some of the most renowned figures in the music industry. It’s a tremendous honor to share the stage and create music alongside these incredible artists. Such experiences not only elevate my own artistry but also allow me to contribute to the magic that unfolds when talented individuals come together.
Creating music that transcends time, leaving a lasting impact that extends beyond my lifetime. I strive to craft compositions that resonate deeply with people, evoking emotions and connecting with their souls. This way, my art can carry a piece of me, providing a form of immortality through the enduring power of music.
These aspirations drive me to continually evolve as a musician, push my boundaries, and strive for excellence in all that I do. It is through these pursuits that I find purpose, fulfillment, and the ability to leave a meaningful legacy through my art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bandmix.com/gabetreiyer/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabetreiyer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabetreiyer
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabetreiyer/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GabeTreiyer
Image Credits
Photographer: Genell Ferrell for Whitedog Photography