Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlos Aguilar.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in two worlds. I was born in Mexico City as a dual citizen and attended the American School Foundation. We briefly moved to England in the early 60s as the Beatles were beginning to explode in popularity. Much of my childhood was saturated with the Beatles’ juggernaut of top hits, as well as a very eclectic collection which my father played constantly on an old “Hi/Fi record player, ranging from classical symphonies to Roy Clarke. From a very early age I became fascinated with musical composition as well as figuring out every instrument I could get my hands on, be it an accordion, piano, flute, or guitar.
I began to study classical guitar in ’79 in Philadelphia and began formal piano lessons in ’82 in Toluca, Mexico, at the newly forming Conservatory.
In 1984, I visited my parents in Texas for Christmas and have lived here ever since.
After graduating from the University of North Texas, I performed in the area and opened a studio in Denton. I soon also became a founding member of the Allen School of Music. In 1997, I opened an independent studio in McKinney to better serve the rapidly growing demand in the area, my studio has moved to its present location on University Dr, where it continues to operate at full capacity. I am very grateful to the Dallas/McKinney area for their continued loyalty and support.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been surprisingly smooth. Even during times of crisis and economic recession, the studio has enjoyed a full student load. In some cases grandparents have taken over the tuition to cover for the parents during times of company layoffs. Needless to say, I am deeply grateful.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Aguilar Music Studio – what should we know?
Aguilar Music Studio offers a unique perspective on musicianship. Scientific and historical insights complement and enhance the artistic approach. This deeper perspective allows students to understand music theory more clearly and therefore develop a better command of music interpretation and composition. Proper technique is explained from a practical rather than a dogmatic approach. Teaching why and how something works is just as important as is pointing to the fact that it does work. A large portion of the curriculum is original and students often grow especially fond of these pieces. Technical drills are crafted into fun performance pieces known in the academic world as Etudes.
We don’t just learn to think outside the box: We learn to build a better one.
What is your favorite memory of your childhood?
Although I have many fond memories, living in Coventry, England is to this day my favorite. Although I was only three years old, I have many vivid memories, including the stained glass window at the stairs, where “daddy long legs” liked to hang out. The Corgi next door, who would leave at eight in the morning and would return at five as if he had a job. The old clock downtown with Lady Godiva riding her horse while Peeping Tom stuck his head out from a higher window. That is where I ended up covered in pigeons at Trafalgar Square when I was too slow to deliver the snacks.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Before I mention academic mentors, much credit belongs to my parents who were fiercely independent and taught me the importance of authenticity, integrity, and honesty.
(listed chronologically) In the academic field I am greatly indebted to classical guitarists Asher Morris from Temple University in Philadelphia, as well as my professors in Texas: Christopher McGuire and Tom Johnson. Dr. Kevin Korsyn is a brilliant theoretician and pianist. To this day, I am regularly guided by his contrapuntal approach to composition.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.AguilarMusicStudio.com
- Phone: (972) 540-1410
- Email: lessons@aguilarmusicstudio.com
- Facebook: Aguilar Music Studio
Image Credit:
all artwork is property of Aguilar Music Studio
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