Today we’d like to introduce you to Teofilo “Teo” Bijarro.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Teofilo. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have been a freelance musician playing in and round Houston since I was a teenager in various bands in many different genres of music. In 2005, I lost a significant portion of my eyesight due to complications from diabetes. I went into semi-retirement as I adjusted to my new life as a legally blind individual. My return to the stage began with the somewhat infamous local activist music group called Free Radicals. Highlights from my time with the band include winning Houston’s Best Jazz Band for several years, as well as winning album and song of the year in 2012 for our album “Freedom Fence” and our song “Ben Taub Blues.” I am currently the house bassist for “The Monday Nite Jazz Jam,” which is the longest-running jam session in Texas which was founded by the famous Houston based saxophonist Arnett Cobb to celebrate his birthday back in 1958. I also lead my own band which plays weekly in Sugarland at a place called The Roof. I perform as a sideman in several projects, as well as performing solo on vocals, guitar, and keyboards. I am also the administrator of a support group on Facebook for Blind and Visually Impaired People that has over 7,000 members from all over the world. I also teach private music lessons and hope to one day teach blind children to learn to sing or learn to play a musical instrument.
Has it been a smooth road?
There have been constant struggles throughout my career. Life as a freelance musician is never easy. Losing my vision made everything more complicated. Simple life tasks required much adjustment, not to mention the struggles of trying to perform in public. It was a great adjustment to not be able to make eye contact with fellow musicians, or being able to see the crowd react. Not to mention not being able to look down at my hands to double-check that they are in the right position. I have lost count of how many times I have smashed my face into a microphone or nearly trip over an out of place instrument cable. Also, having to learn all new music by ear, and have to memorize everything I perform, including some musical theatre shows in which all of the other musicians had the luxury of looking down at their sheet music. Transportation can be difficult with all of the equipment I need to perform.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am proud that I have been able to rebuild my music career despite the struggles that come from my visual impairment. I am proud to say I am one of the most versatile bassists in Houston and have grown into a bandleader, blogger, and part-time booking agent. I strive to bring art and culture to the masses, and in my opinion, there is no greater pursuit.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the diversity of the people. We are truly an international city, and I have made great friends with people from all over the world and have had an opportunity to work in so many genres of music from all over the globe. What I like least about our city is the lack of great public transportation, especially for those with disabilities.
Contact Info:
- Website: teofilobijarro.com
- Facebook: The Blind Bassist
- Instagram: The Blind Bassist
- Email: teo.bijarro@gmail.com
- Phone: 832-757-7399 for bookings
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