Jonatan Gahete and the "Papa Canalla"

Which came first?

The intention to study engineering came in high school, thanks to a teacher I had at this stage. Instead, the guitar came quite a bit later. I really like flamenco and rumba and I've always been very interested in the role of the guitar in these two styles of music, but I've never studied them (apart from the compulsory curriculum), not even he had never picked up a guitar. The fact is that unconsciously and thoughtlessly, one day I went into an instrument store and bought the cheapest guitar, because I was not sure if we would have much future together or if it would be cornered accumulating dust forever more. From that moment on, I forced myself to spend time learning about it. That was about 27 years old.

You have a band, Papa Canalla, in which you play the guitar. How do you organize yourself?

Well, even though some members of the group are dedicated to music professionally, the rest of us have our jobs and music is more of a therapy than an obligation. This does not mean that we do not take it seriously, moreover, it implies that we do it willingly and we always find moments to meet and rehearse on a regular basis. It should also be noted that we are more friends than group mates at this point, which makes everything a lot easier.

How has playing guitar helped you to develop your career as an engineer?

For me, music and guitar are an escape, recreation, and therapy valve, so their contribution is important.

And vice versa?

Well, probably having started playing the guitar so late, the fact that being meticulous, structured, organized, etc., characteristics of my work, have allowed me to be able to play on stage in front of the public.

How do you combine the work of an engineer with the concerts you have with Papa Canalla?

Concerts are usually on weekends and holidays, so it's not incompatible with my position.

What do you expect the College of Engineers to give you to forge your career?

The College has always been an organization that has given me support in times of need throughout my career with the various services it offers. I'm sure it will continue to be so in the many years I have left in my career.