Today we’d like to introduce you to Hector Guzman.
Hi Hector, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Mexico. Began piano lessons at age six, organ at age 15 and conducting at age 17. Attended the National Conservatory of Music in Mexico City. Continued organ and conducting studies at the University of North Texas, Southern Methodist University and post-graduate courses at the University of Oregon and the Accademia Musicale Chigiana in Siena, Italy. Studied under conductors Anshel Brusilow, Carlo Maria Giulini, Helmuth Rilling and my organ and piano teachers were Victor Urban, Dr. Robert Anderson and Alfred Mouledous. I was also a protege of the late Eduardo Mata, former Music Director of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. I was fortunate to win national and international competitions in both organ and conducting in Mexico, the USA and France. Today, I am the Music Director of the Plano Symphony, Irving Symphony, San Angelo Symphony, Corpus Christi Symphony, Conductor Emeritus of the Jalisco Philharmonic in Mexico and in demand internationally as guest conductor and organist. I make my home in Plano, Texas. I am blessed with a beautiful family: my wife Daisy, children Francisco and Sofia and grandchildren Benjamin (age three) and Oliver (age one).
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In music, especially symphonic music, there are always challenges and obstacles…… getting to be a music director/conductor takes an enormous amount of diligence, patience, study, practice and yes, some good “breaks” along the way, but it is never easy. Navigating through different boards, administrators, musicians, soloists, schedules, travel, etc. is a major challenge, but always exciting. You never stop learning!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a musician….I happen to be gifted not only on my main instrument, the organ, but also as a conductor. My professors were simply outstanding. Their approach to music included integrity on and off the podium, a professional attitude towards musicians and the utmost respect and love for the music. This continues to be my goal even to this day. I am not better than, or more talented than anybody, I simply was well taught and took advantage of the opportunities presented throughout my life. I am most proud of the integrity of my work….a legacy of more than four decades.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The ability to communicate with musicians, audiences and staff in a firm, yet courteous way, as well as bringing emotion to all kinds of music.
Contact Info:
- Website: [email protected] | irvingsymphony.org | sanangelosymphony.org | ccsymphony.org
