Eric Oberstein’s deep connections to the arts have been part of his life since the start. Growing up in New York with Cuban roots, Oberstein was surrounded by music. His older brother played piano. His mom and grandparents all honored their culture through language, food, and music. Such familial influence eventually led Oberstein himself to find his passion as a saxophonist and drummer. He played in a rock band in high school, recorded an album, and was the drum major of the school marching band. Oberstein’s early pursuit of music not only deepened his creativity and his love for the performing arts but also taught him leadership skills along the way.
Bringing It All Together at Duke
At Duke, Oberstein’s passion for music took on new meanings. A seminar in cultural anthropology on Cuba, as well as his time performing with Duke’s Afro-Cuban Percussion Ensemble directed by his mentor, the late Bradley Simmons, opened his eyes to the rich history and context behind the music he loved. He ended up majoring in Cultural Anthropology with Certificates in both Arts Management & Cultural Policy and Latin American Studies.
Oberstein didn’t just study the arts at Duke — he lived it. Living and learning in New York City, Oberstein’s experience with the Duke in New York program can only be described as transformative. Interning with Jazz at the Lincoln Center allowed him to see the bigger picture — what it’s like to work behind the scenes in arts organizations. This immersive experience confirmed Oberstein’s interest and calling — that one day, he would also want to be a leader of arts organizations.
As an undergraduate student, Oberstein also interned with Duke Performances. This experience gave him hands-on experience organizing shows and learning the ins and outs of arts administration. Immediately following graduation, Oberstein continued applying all the skills he had acquired, working the Music in the Gardens series, producing concerts and engaging with local artists. “It brought everything I loved together,” he said. His time at Duke Performances also reinforced his deep connection to his Cuban heritage, a theme that would guide his work for years to come.
Winning GRAMMYs and Latin GRAMMYs
Following his calling, Oberstein pursued his M.A. degree in Arts Administration from Columbia University and his Ed.M. degree in Arts in Education from Harvard University. It was also during this period that he crossed paths with pianist and composer Arturo O’Farrill, a leading figure in Latin jazz. “He invited me not just to an administrative space but also to a creative space.” Later, Oberstein became the executive director for O’Farrill’s organization, producing several albums that would go on to win a GRAMMY and two Latin GRAMMYs (he later earned a second GRAMMY producing Cuban drummer and composer Dafnis Prieto’s big band album). Remembering fondly the day when they first won — it was not just a milestone of his journey, it was a new starting point. Oberstein went on to meet many outstanding artists like Arturo and Dafnis, opening new opportunities for collaboration.
Full Circle Moments
In 2012, five years after his graduation, Oberstein received an opportunity to return to Duke. He contributed to the foundational work for the establishment and growth of the Duke Arts program students now know and love. Thinking about his experiences with Duke Performances from years ago, “it was a full-circle moment,” Oberstein said.
Then, as an adjunct instructor at Duke, he taught an interdisciplinary class on arts management to Duke students, bringing in guest speakers to showcase various paths in the arts. “I wanted to give students the opportunities I wanted to have when I was a student.” Whether students go on to work in the arts or pursue other fields, Oberstein hoped to show them the value of the arts in shaping their perspectives and inspire students to think of who they are in this world in which we live.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to the Arts and Community
Most recently, Oberstein served as the Managing Director of Harlem Stage, where he focused on supporting artists of color and lifting underrepresented voices. “The world needs the arts more than ever,” he said. “It’s a way to bring people together.” Oberstein is still producing music. He just produced a new album released in September 2024 by Dafnis Prieto, 3 Sides of the Coin. He also recently launched his own company, Eric Oberstein Productions, which provides artist management and producing services, as well as consulting to arts and cultural organizations.
And, on a more personal note, he’s navigating life as a new dad — a role he could only describe as “life-changing in a beautiful way.”
“Surround yourself with good people and follow what you’re passionate about.” It’s a simple message, but one that’s continuously guided Oberstein, whose career continues to inspire. His advice to Duke students? “Duke is incredible with its culture and unparalleled resources — take advantage of that.”
For more on Oberstein’s work, visit his website: ericoberstein.com