In addition to a decade of teaching, you’ve also performed internationally. What is your most memorable performance and what about that specific time makes it stand out to you?
During my undergrad, I used to play in a string quartet called the Klangfarben String Quartet, and we were invited to play in a music festival in Mississippi. I remember we played the American Quartet by Dvorak. It was such an inspiring and passionate performance, especially in the 3rd movement. I remember at the end of the concert an older woman approached me and told me that she was in tears during that movement. That was truly memorable and made me realize how magical music can be and the responsibility we as musicians have to inspire others to love classical music.
We’re proud of a faculty built of teachers from all over the world. One of the interesting parts of music is how different countries have contrasting cultures and attitudes toward music. You’re originally from Honduras. Can you share some similarities and differences you’ve noticed between the music culture of Honduras and the music culture here in the US?
Unfortunately, the arts are not very well supported in Honduras. The degree in music just started a few years ago at a university level, that was one of the reasons why I chose to come to study here, and I don’t think there is a single full-time orchestra in the whole country which is a very big difference compared to the U.S. where there are many top symphonies and music schools. There are many talented kids in my country just as here in the U.S., but it is not nearly as diverse as the US which makes sharing music with people from all over the world an extremely unique and special experience.
A common problem in music is that sometimes a great performer is not always a great teacher. It can be difficult to take very high-level concepts and translate them into an understandable language for students. How have you managed to bridge the gap between performer and teacher?
I was so fortunate to have had such amazing and inspiring mentors since my beginnings as a violinist. I feel I had incredible guidance that has provided me tools to help and teach others. My own struggle as a student has been another reason. Having to find different ways to reach a goal or finding different practice techniques that help me improve my own playing and translated to others is another way I have managed to bridge that gap. And my previous experience as a teacher has also helped me incredibly because when you teach, you learn as well.
Teachers have another life outside of just teaching and performing. When you have free time, what are some activities people might be surprised to know you do for fun?
I am crazy about soccer. I love playing and watching soccer games. Every weekend I follow La Liga from Spain and the Premier League from England. I also enjoy going to the movies, going for a coffee, and hanging out with family and friends.
Thank you, Luis, for sharing your time and experience in music! We’re proud to have you as part of our Opus 1 faculty!