You would have to experience the electrifying, soulful live performance of Gospel and Contemporary African Artiste, Esther Mulero, popularly known as Estee Sax, to fully appreciate the dexterity and indisputable professionalism with which she plays the saxophone.
In this interview with Apples Bite International Magazine, Estee Sax recounts her journey to self-discovery in music, the challenges, and the assurance she found along the way, alongside her thoughts on relationships and life.
Enjoy excerpts from the interview below.
How did you discover your love for the saxophone?
My love for the saxophone is extraordinary. I had early exposure to music and grew up falling in love with sweet sounds. As a teenager, I started playing the drums and later developed an interest in the keyboard at age 10. My passion for music grew, and one day, I attended a musical concert where a saxophonist performed. I was instantly inspired by the sound, and something within me told me that this instrument would help me break boundaries and bless lives. Fortunately, my parents recognized my passion and encouraged me to pursue it.
How would you describe your genre of music and sound?
My genre of music is ‘CONTAF,’ which stands for Contemporary African music.
How long have you been playing the saxophone?
I’ve been playing the saxophone for six years now.
Are you strictly a saxophonist, or do you also record music?
I’m both a saxophonist and a recording gospel artiste.
Did you receive formal music training?
Yes, I studied Music Technology at The Polytechnic, Ibadan. So, I’m a musicologist.
How did you convince your parents about your passion for the saxophone?
My parents are involved in ministry, and my playing musical instruments was seen as an advantage. Once they saw the kind of talent I had, they encouraged and supported me, even spiritually.
Did they ever reject the idea at any point?
Yes, initially. Since the saxophone is a wind instrument, they thought it was more suited for men. But as they recognized my passion, they became convinced and fully supportive.
Can you recall your first major performance? How did you feel?
I was quite young, still in my teens. It was at the first concert I organized, called ‘YAWDAW,’ Altar of Worship. I performed for 1 hour and 30 minutes straight because I was the convener. It was a powerful worship and praise program. I was nervous since it was my first time on stage, but God helped me. This was in 2015.
You play an instrument that is commonly associated with males. Do you get strange reactions from people when they see you playing the saxophone?
Of course, yes. They are usually amazed when they see me play.
Has your passion for music ever cost you anything?
Yes, it has. I initially wanted to be an accountant, but my love and passion for music made me change course.
What challenges do you face as a saxophonist?
The main challenges are maintaining the instrument and scheduling rehearsals.
Is there any health risk associated with playing a wind instrument?
No, not at all.
Considering your background in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), where the saxophone isn’t typically used, how does the church receive your music and style?
My music and talent are non-denominational. With the help of the Holy Spirit, I’ve been able to explore various avenues. My professionalism also helps change the spiritual atmosphere when I perform in churches, crusades, conventions, and concerts.
Who are your role models?
Jerry Omole, Beejaysax, Mike Aremu, and Saxgold.
Do you do anything else apart from playing the saxophone?
Yes, I am the convener of a musical concept, an entrepreneur, and an aspiring music producer. I also run a music school and a gospel artist mentoring group.
What skills does one need to become a saxophonist?
Passion and clarity of purpose.
Do you think Nigerians appreciate saxophonists?
Saxophonists are not as appreciated in Nigeria as they are abroad, where sax players are often celebrated for their skills.
What does music mean to you?
Music is any sound that is pleasant and agreeable to the ear. It’s healing, an explosive expression of humanity that touches everyone regardless of culture. Music rejuvenates the soul, filling it with energy and vitality.
Do you consider yourself solely a gospel artiste, or do you explore other genres?
I am both a gospel and contemporary music artiste.
Which artistes would you love to collaborate with?
Locally, I’d love to collaborate with Mike Aremu and Nathaniel Bassey. Internationally, I’d love to work with Dave Koz.
What are your plans for your brand, and how do you intend to push your career to the next level?
I plan to utilize platforms like Instagram and YouTube to promote myself. I am currently working on a project that I’ll announce at the right time. I believe with God’s help, it will elevate my career.
What do you think about the Nigerian music industry?
The music industry in Nigeria is growing but still needs more creativity and inspiration to reach its full potential.
How would you describe Estee Sax?
I would describe myself as a prolific female saxophonist, musicologist, and multi-instrumentalist. I am someone who has remained consistent in service, both in and out of season. I feel blessed doing gospel music. I am based in Lagos, Nigeria, and I studied Music Technology at The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
Are you in a relationship?
Yes, I am.
Is your partner involved in music as well?
Yes, he is.
What are your biggest dreams?
My dream is to be a renowned gospel music producer, both locally and globally. I see myself performing on international stages and putting smiles on people’s faces with my music. My desire is to spread the message of Christ and bless lives through my sound.
You can connect with Estee Sax on social media:
Email: muleroesther27@gmail.comYou would have to experience the electrifying, soulful live performance of Gospel and Contemporary African Artiste, Esther Mulero, popularly known as Estee Sax, to fully appreciate the dexterity and indisputable professionalism with which she plays the saxophone.
In this interview with Apples Bite International Magazine, Estee Sax recounts her journey to self-discovery in music, the challenges, and the assurance she found along the way, alongside her thoughts on relationships and life.
Enjoy excerpts from the interview below.
How did you discover your love for the saxophone?
My love for the saxophone is extraordinary. I had early exposure to music and grew up falling in love with sweet sounds. As a teenager, I started playing the drums and later developed an interest in the keyboard at age 10. My passion for music grew, and one day, I attended a musical concert where a saxophonist performed. I was instantly inspired by the sound, and something within me told me that this instrument would help me break boundaries and bless lives. Fortunately, my parents recognized my passion and encouraged me to pursue it.
How would you describe your genre of music and sound?
My genre of music is ‘CONTAF,’ which stands for Contemporary African music.
How long have you been playing the saxophone?
I’ve been playing the saxophone for six years now.
Are you strictly a saxophonist, or do you also record music?
I’m both a saxophonist and a recording gospel artiste.
Did you receive formal music training?
Yes, I studied Music Technology at The Polytechnic, Ibadan. So, I’m a musicologist.
How did you convince your parents about your passion for the saxophone?
My parents are involved in ministry, and my playing musical instruments was seen as an advantage. Once they saw the kind of talent I had, they encouraged and supported me, even spiritually.
Did they ever reject the idea at any point?
Yes, initially. Since the saxophone is a wind instrument, they thought it was more suited for men. But as they recognized my passion, they became convinced and fully supportive.
Can you recall your first major performance? How did you feel?
I was quite young, still in my teens. It was at the first concert I organized, called ‘YAWDAW,’ Altar of Worship. I performed for 1 hour and 30 minutes straight because I was the convener. It was a powerful worship and praise program. I was nervous since it was my first time on stage, but God helped me. This was in 2015.
You play an instrument that is commonly associated with males. Do you get strange reactions from people when they see you playing the saxophone?
Of course, yes. They are usually amazed when they see me play.
Has your passion for music ever cost you anything?
Yes, it has. I initially wanted to be an accountant, but my love and passion for music made me change course.
What challenges do you face as a saxophonist?
The main challenges are maintaining the instrument and scheduling rehearsals.
Is there any health risk associated with playing a wind instrument?
No, not at all.
Considering your background in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), where the saxophone isn’t typically used, how does the church receive your music and style?
My music and talent are non-denominational. With the help of the Holy Spirit, I’ve been able to explore various avenues. My professionalism also helps change the spiritual atmosphere when I perform in churches, crusades, conventions, and concerts.
Who are your role models?
Jerry Omole, Beejaysax, Mike Aremu, and Saxgold.
Do you do anything else apart from playing the saxophone?
Yes, I am the convener of a musical concept, an entrepreneur, and an aspiring music producer. I also run a music school and a gospel artist mentoring group.
What skills does one need to become a saxophonist?
Passion and clarity of purpose.
Do you think Nigerians appreciate saxophonists?
Saxophonists are not as appreciated in Nigeria as they are abroad, where sax players are often celebrated for their skills.
What does music mean to you?
Music is any sound that is pleasant and agreeable to the ear. It’s healing, an explosive expression of humanity that touches everyone regardless of culture. Music rejuvenates the soul, filling it with energy and vitality.
Do you consider yourself solely a gospel artiste, or do you explore other genres?
I am both a gospel and contemporary music artiste.
Which artistes would you love to collaborate with?
Locally, I’d love to collaborate with Mike Aremu and Nathaniel Bassey. Internationally, I’d love to work with Dave Koz.
What are your plans for your brand, and how do you intend to push your career to the next level?
I plan to utilize platforms like Instagram and YouTube to promote myself. I am currently working on a project that I’ll announce at the right time. I believe with God’s help, it will elevate my career.
What do you think about the Nigerian music industry?
The music industry in Nigeria is growing but still needs more creativity and inspiration to reach its full potential.
How would you describe Estee Sax?
I would describe myself as a prolific female saxophonist, musicologist, and multi-instrumentalist. I am someone who has remained consistent in service, both in and out of season. I feel blessed doing gospel music. I am based in Lagos, Nigeria, and I studied Music Technology at The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
Are you in a relationship?
Yes, I am.
Is your partner involved in music as well?
Yes, he is.
What are your biggest dreams?
My dream is to be a renowned gospel music producer, both locally and globally. I see myself performing on international stages and putting smiles on people’s faces with my music. My desire is to spread the message of Christ and bless lives through my sound.
You can connect with Estee Sax on social media:
Email: muleroesther27@gmail.comYou would have to experience the electrifying, soulful live performance of Gospel and Contemporary African Artiste, Esther Mulero, popularly known as Estee Sax, to fully appreciate the dexterity and indisputable professionalism with which she plays the saxophone.
In this interview with Apples Bite International Magazine, Estee Sax recounts her journey to self-discovery in music, the challenges, and the assurance she found along the way, alongside her thoughts on relationships and life.
Enjoy excerpts from the interview below.
How did you discover your love for the saxophone?
My love for the saxophone is extraordinary. I had early exposure to music and grew up falling in love with sweet sounds. As a teenager, I started playing the drums and later developed an interest in the keyboard at age 10. My passion for music grew, and one day, I attended a musical concert where a saxophonist performed. I was instantly inspired by the sound, and something within me told me that this instrument would help me break boundaries and bless lives. Fortunately, my parents recognized my passion and encouraged me to pursue it.
How would you describe your genre of music and sound?
My genre of music is ‘CONTAF,’ which stands for Contemporary African music.
How long have you been playing the saxophone?
I’ve been playing the saxophone for six years now.
Are you strictly a saxophonist, or do you also record music?
I’m both a saxophonist and a recording gospel artiste.
Did you receive formal music training?
Yes, I studied Music Technology at The Polytechnic, Ibadan. So, I’m a musicologist.
How did you convince your parents about your passion for the saxophone?
My parents are involved in ministry, and my playing musical instruments was seen as an advantage. Once they saw the kind of talent I had, they encouraged and supported me, even spiritually.
Did they ever reject the idea at any point?
Yes, initially. Since the saxophone is a wind instrument, they thought it was more suited for men. But as they recognized my passion, they became convinced and fully supportive.
Can you recall your first major performance? How did you feel?
I was quite young, still in my teens. It was at the first concert I organized, called ‘YAWDAW,’ Altar of Worship. I performed for 1 hour and 30 minutes straight because I was the convener. It was a powerful worship and praise program. I was nervous since it was my first time on stage, but God helped me. This was in 2015.
You play an instrument that is commonly associated with males. Do you get strange reactions from people when they see you playing the saxophone?
Of course, yes. They are usually amazed when they see me play.
Has your passion for music ever cost you anything?
Yes, it has. I initially wanted to be an accountant, but my love and passion for music made me change course.
What challenges do you face as a saxophonist?
The main challenges are maintaining the instrument and scheduling rehearsals.
Is there any health risk associated with playing a wind instrument?
No, not at all.
Considering your background in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), where the saxophone isn’t typically used, how does the church receive your music and style?
My music and talent are non-denominational. With the help of the Holy Spirit, I’ve been able to explore various avenues. My professionalism also helps change the spiritual atmosphere when I perform in churches, crusades, conventions, and concerts.
Who are your role models?
Jerry Omole, Beejaysax, Mike Aremu, and Saxgold.
Do you do anything else apart from playing the saxophone?
Yes, I am the convener of a musical concept, an entrepreneur, and an aspiring music producer. I also run a music school and a gospel artist mentoring group.
What skills does one need to become a saxophonist?
Passion and clarity of purpose.
Do you think Nigerians appreciate saxophonists?
Saxophonists are not as appreciated in Nigeria as they are abroad, where sax players are often celebrated for their skills.
What does music mean to you?
Music is any sound that is pleasant and agreeable to the ear. It’s healing, an explosive expression of humanity that touches everyone regardless of culture. Music rejuvenates the soul, filling it with energy and vitality.
Do you consider yourself solely a gospel artiste, or do you explore other genres?
I am both a gospel and contemporary music artiste.
Which artistes would you love to collaborate with?
Locally, I’d love to collaborate with Mike Aremu and Nathaniel Bassey. Internationally, I’d love to work with Dave Koz.
What are your plans for your brand, and how do you intend to push your career to the next level?
I plan to utilize platforms like Instagram and YouTube to promote myself. I am currently working on a project that I’ll announce at the right time. I believe with God’s help, it will elevate my career.
What do you think about the Nigerian music industry?
The music industry in Nigeria is growing but still needs more creativity and inspiration to reach its full potential.
How would you describe Estee Sax?
I would describe myself as a prolific female saxophonist, musicologist, and multi-instrumentalist. I am someone who has remained consistent in service, both in and out of season. I feel blessed doing gospel music. I am based in Lagos, Nigeria, and I studied Music Technology at The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
Are you in a relationship?
Yes, I am.
Is your partner involved in music as well?
Yes, he is.
What are your biggest dreams?
My dream is to be a renowned gospel music producer, both locally and globally. I see myself performing on international stages and putting smiles on people’s faces with my music. My desire is to spread the message of Christ and bless lives through my sound.
You can connect with Estee Sax on social media:
Email: muleroesther27@gmail.com
Instagram: @estee_sax
Facebook: Mulero Estee Sax
Instagram: @estee_sax
Facebook: Mulero Estee Sax
Instagram: @estee_sax
Facebook: Mulero Estee Sax
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
