Dr. Simon Estes is a professor at Wartburg College. Leon Kuehner and I had the opportunity to interview him for the upcoming Simon Estes In Residency program. Here’s a few excerpts.
Why Wagner? What about that composer that resonates with you?
Many people say he’s probably the greatest of all composers. He wrote all of his own lyrics. He wanted the human voice to be another instrument in the orchestra. You can listen to his music without the human voice and still enjoy it. Listen to Verdi (and this is where he Dr. Estes started singing). With the voice or melodic vocal line—it can be a little boring. Wagner’s music is all symphonic and beautiful. I have sung all of his operas except for one.
It’s a long way from Centerville Iowa to the places you’ve been. How did growing up in Iowa prepare you for the trip?
My faith, my parents taught me humility, the work ethic, being responsible, discipline, courage and never give up. Regardless of the obstacles. We were extraordinarily poor—by the end of the week we were hungry. My parents taught us never to hate. They taught us to pray for those who hated us. It’s a Christlike teaching that I received from my mother and father. You can hate evil, but you not not hate another human being. Pray for them.
Why did you choose Hampton to be the first county in your Roots and Wings Tour?
I believe God has a hand in this. My first voice teacher taught me for free. I told him if I ever had a career, I’d pay him back. He said No, just remain humble. I am from Iowa and I think it’s great we are starting this in Hampton. I had this idea to perform in all 99 counties. Hampton literally jumped off the map into my hands . Trent Grundmeyer made a call and we started talking and next thing you know—Hampton jumped up and demanded that we start there. What you guys are doing has blown me over. You are showing the rest of the state that Iowa can do something very special.
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