Augustine Celestine is a US based Nigerian gospel musician, also known as Dstines. He was born and raised in Port Harcourt, but originally hails from Akwa Ibom State. Dstines is from a musical family whose father held the position of a Choir Master while his mother was a Soprano singer at their local church.
Dstines started his music career at the age of 9, when he started playing the drums, but later transitioned to a rhythm guitarist at his church. He was a vital member of his church band and traveled across Nigeria playing and ministering through music.
With time, Dstines also explored the Secular Music world where he performed with various known and unknown secular artistes in addition to playing at several churches and gospel artistes all over Nigeria. This has enabled him to develop a versatile, rich and full musical experience. Dstines has held the role of a lead guitarist, lead singer and backgrounds, to different musical artistes. In the music community at a time in Port Harcourt, he was recognized as a renowned and dependable session man. Today he is a Multi-Instrumentalist, Singer-Songwriter, Composer, Record Producer, Music Director, and Educator.
Music Career
Dstines has performed with several musicians throughout his life time. Dstines once worked for Chief Alabo Tonye Graham Douglas. (Former Minister for Youths, Sports and Culture and Tourism) which enabled him to Perform at Aso Rock for the 50th birthday of former President Obasanjo’s wife, Late Stella Obasanjo and Barr. Anugbum Onuoha (Special Adviser to the Governor on lands, Rivers State). In addition to several governmental functions and events where entertainment was needed.
Education
Dstines received a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture from Nigeria, University of Uyo. With further studies in Green Energy Management at San Diego State University and also obtained a professional certificate in architecture and urban design at the University of California Los Angeles. Took a Classical Guitar music course at Los Angeles Valley College and vocal technique and aesthetic interpretation, at Pierce College, Woodland Hills, CA.
Dstines is driven by the design ideology of “Simplicity is advantageous to complexity” which he also applies to his music ideology. Dstines believes we can feel design as we feel music.
Today Dstines has decided to Power Up for Christ and making music for the Glory of God!