 1. Where were you born? Tell us a little about your youth and upbringing?
I was born in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. I grew up in a typical poor neighborhood of Latin America. My father was a musician in the local band (tuba player) and my mother took care at home of seven brothers and sisters. I had a very happy childhood, the warm environment will come not only from my family but also from the seaside. The open sea was always an inspiration.
2. Earliest musical memories?
At the age of 7, there was a big event at my school. My music teacher carefully prepared the musical show. One day before singing the national anthem in front of the whole audience of the auditorium she decided I was going to conduct the chorus. I did not hesitate to go in front when she called me to the podium, but I got weary when I realized the little stick she gave me was powerful and noisy. I had to learn how to make it work so everyone can sing at my sign! That was scary! Drawing the last note at the end of the piece was a feeling I still keep in my mind.
3. Your education? Where did you attend college, primary teachers?
I when to a Catholic School in Venezuela (College San Jose de la Salle). Then I attended the Music Conservatory for the next 8 years. I went to UK to get my Music License as a Teacher and as a Bassoonist, which I received form the Royal Academy of Music. A few years later I got a full scholarship to study for my Masters Degree at the University of Miami (FL), then I attended Boston University for a Doctoral degree.
4. Why did you choose your instrument?
Its warm, lovely sound.
5. When did you know you wanted to be a professional musician?
I got training thought FESNOJIV, a musical institution in Venezuela that created a musical orchestra program for youth and children. I realized doing something you love so personally can be considered as a way of making a living, specially having the support and inspiration of a great visionary and extraordinary human being, Maestro Jose Antonio Abreu.
6. Who were/are your most important musical influences?
My father, my bassoon teacher Filiberto Nunez and my mentor, Maestro Abreu.
7. Most inspiring composers?
Johannes Brahms, W. A. Mozart and J. S. Bach.
8. What would you be if not a musician?
I would be selling something, and be very unhappy.
9. Your favorite thing about playing in the ACO?
Having Mr. Robertson as a conductor.
10. With what other ensembles do you perform/where do you teach?
Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra (Venezuela), Hingham Symphony (MA), Miami Symphony (FL) and others. I teach now in Venezuela (Bassoon and Chamber Music) and serve as a principal teacher in the Simon Bolivar Music Conservatory in Valencia, Venezuela.
11. What is in your CD player right now?
Venezuelan music.
12. What do you like to do outside of work/hobby/pastime(s)?
I like traveling very much!
13. Anything else particularly interesting or enlightening you would like to share?
Music can take you anywhere, even within your many souls.
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