THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
I am delighted to welcome you to the 50 Years of Art & Music celebration at the Tobin. A half a century ago, UTSA administrator Tomás Rivera - who has gone down in history as one of the most influential creative writers in Mexican American literature - had a dream for the, then new, university's role in harnessing and extending the rich and vibrant cultural traditions in San Antonio. He tapped his old friend and art history scholar, Jacinto Quirarte, as UTSAs founding dean of the arts. Quirarte's vision was to prepare upcoming generations of artists with the most up-to-date artistic techniques through a lived influence from artists, musicians, dancers, and writers who are themselves outstanding practitioners. This vision has endured over the past fifty years
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the sixth annual Southwest Guitar Symposium! The 2025 edition will take place March 14-16 in the beautiful city of San Antonio, hosted by the University of Texas at San Antonio School of Music.
Our faculty exhibit and perform artistic works in the most coveted and competitive venues in the world from Carnegie Hall to Walt Disney Concert Hall. Their works are included in top collections such as the Smithsonian. Their recordings have garnered multiple Grammy nominations. This high-powered faculty works tirelessly to train and inspire the next generation of artists, musicians, dancers, writers, filmmakers and other creatives. Tonight , you will witness artistry and musicianship of the highest caliber performed by over 350 current UTSA students. You will witness the fruit of countless hours of practice and rehearsal and the artistic product of grueling physical work in the studio. You will see the creative curation of multiple artistic forms and practices coming together in a wonderful mosaic that expresses the vitality and power of San Antonio's creative community.
We are thrilled to present an inspiring lineup of performances and events, featuring distinguished concert artists from around the world. This year, we have the great pleasure of welcoming the acclaimed Cicchillitti-Cowan Guitar Duo, W.E. Duo, and Duo Fortis, as well as the Rubio-Reece Duo and Costa Rican guitarist Marco Corrales. Additionally, we are excited to showcase the winners of the 2024 SWGS Competitions, Allen Liu and David Manzanares, along with special guest performances by Dr. Jourdan Laine Howell (soprano), and the Coronado High School Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Timothy Thomas.
Beyond performances, the SWGS solo competitions will once again feature High School and Open Division categories, providing a platform for talented young musicians to shine.
Our 50-year trajectory has been a journey that we have taken with many others in the community and we are so happy to make this event possible with the partnership and help of friends and colleagues who have been with us for decades. We are so thankful to our sponsors for helping to make this celebration possible.
Enjoy the show!
We invite you to join us for what promises to be an uplifting, exciting, and enriching weekend of music, artistry, and community. We cannot wait to share this experience with you!
Dr. Isaac Bustos
Glenn A. Martínez,
PhD MPH
Dean of the College of Liberal and Fine Arts
Artistic Director, Southwest Guitar Symposium
Professor of Spanish, Bicultural/Bilingual Studies, and Public Health Stumberg Distinguished University Chair
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
UTSA SCHOOL OF MUSIC PRESENTS
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM
MARCH 14th-16th, 2025
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Friday, March 14th
10 A.M. | UTSA Art Building Registration Check-in
11 A.M. – 4 P.M. | Recital Hall Preliminary Round: Open Division Judges: Cicchillitti/Cowan/Budds
5 P.M. | Recital Hall Recital: Rubio-Reece Duo
7:30 P M | Recital Hall Duo Fortis featuring Dr. Jourdan Howell, voice, with Tim Thomas and the Coronado HS Chamber Orchestra
Saturday, March 15th
9 A.M. | UTSA Art Building Registration Check-in (High School Division)
9:30 A.M. – 1 P.M. | Recital Hall Preliminary Round: High School Division Semi-Finals: Open Division Judges: Budds, W.E. Duo
1 P.M. – 3 P.M.
Masterclasses: AR 2.03.18A Dr. Isaac Bustos AR. 2.03.08 W.E. Duo
5:00 P.M. | Recital Hall
2024 SWGS Contest Winners Allen Liu and David Manzanares
7:30 P.M. | Recital Hall Cicchillitti/Cowan Duo
Sunday, March 16th
11 A.M. | Recital Hall
Final Round: Open and Highschool Divisions Judges: Cicchillitti/Cowan/Budds
1 P.M. – 3:30 P.M.
Masterclass AR 2.03.18A Cicchillitti/Cowan Duo
4:00 P.M. | Recital Hall
Marco Corrales Recital
6:00PM | Recital Hall W.E Duo
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
CONCERT PROGRAMS
Friday, March 14th – 5 p.m.
Rubio – Reece Duo Andrew Rubio, Guitar
Jesse Reece, Guitar
PROGRAM
From Lute Suite in A Minor, No 2, BWV 997
J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
I. Prelude Andrew Rubio, Guitar
From Due Canzoni Lidie
Nuccio D’Angelo (b. 1955)
I. Tranquillo Jesse Reece, Guitar
Grand Sonata Pathètique No. 8, Op. 13
Ludwig van Beethoven (17701827) (arr. Lorenzo Micheli)
I. Grave – Allegro di molto e con brio
II. Adagio cantabile
III. Allegro
Les Guitares bien tempérées, Op. 199
IV. Prelude and Fugue in E major
Tonadilla for Two Guitars
I. Allegro ma non troppo
II. Minuetto Pomposo
III. Allegro Vivace
Mario Castelnuovo Tedesco (1895-1968)
Joaquín Rodrigo (1901-1999)
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Friday, March 14th – 7:30 p.m.
Duo Fortis and Friends!
Featuring, Jourdan Laine Howell, Soprano
Coronado HS String Orchestra, Tim Thomas, Director
Isaac Bustos, Guitar
Alejandro Montiel, Guitar
PROGRAM
Milonga No. 5 (Dell’emigrante)
Jourdan Laine Howell, Soprano
Isaac Bustos, Guitar
Fernando Carlos Tavolaro (b. 1953)
Concerto for 2 Violins in A Minor, Antonio Vivaldi (1678-1741)
RV 522 Op. 3 No. 8
I. Allegro Molto
II. Andante
III. Allegro
Coronado High School Chamber Orchestra
Tim Thomas, Director
Soloists: Duo Fortis
Isaac Bustos and Alejandro Montiel, Guitar
Duo Concertante in E Minor, Op. 31, No. 3 Antoine de L’hoyer (1768-1852)
I. Allegro Agitato
II. Romance: Andante Sostenuto
III. Rondo: Poco Vivace
From Tango Suite for 2 guitars Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992)
Tango No. 1 – Allegro
Tango No. 2 – Andante
Tango No. 3 – Allegro
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Coronado High School Chamber Orchestra
Violin
Almaguer, Isabella Baldoza, Kayleen Mariane
Cao, Benson
Gogsadze, Lola-Marie
Kim, Ashley Miranda, Nathan Park, Michelle
Pham, Aileen
Watanabe, Abigail Yeh, Robert Yu, Michael
Viola
Bae, Deanna
Bonilla, Megan
Sonnycalf, Sofia
Torrance, Samantha
Cello
Cando, Beanna
Dang, Michael Ju, Ryan Lee, Landon Moss, Nicolas
Pinney, Sinead Ram, Rachana Winfree, Ryan
Bass Girard, Mono Huang, William Nguyen, Uy
Pistalu, Julia Yamada, Calvin
Tim Thomas, Director
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Saturday, March 15th – 5 P.M.
2024 SWGS Winners Concert
Allen Liu, Guitar – 2024 High School Division Winner
David Manzanares, Guitar – 2024 Open Division Winner
PROGRAM
Una Limosna Por el Amor de Dios Agustin Barrios (1885-1944)
Prelude and Allegro from BWV 998
J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
From Whirler of the Dance: Carlos Rafael Rivera (b. 1970)
II. Evocation
From El Decameron Negro Leo Brouwer (b. 1939)
II. La Huida de los Amantes por el Valle de los Ecos L.
Allen Liu, Guitar
Concerto No. 1 in D Major After Vivaldi, BWV 972
I. Allegro
II. Larghetto
III. Allegro
J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
Rondeau de Concert Napoleon Coste (1805-1883)
Triaela Roland Dyens (1955-2016)
I. Light Motifs (Takemitsu au Brésil)
II. Black Horn (when Spain meets Jazz)
III. Clown Down (Gismonti au cirque)
David Manzanares, Guitar
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Saturday, March 15th – 7:30 P.M.
Cicchillitti-Cowan Duo
Adam Cicchillitti, Guitar
Steve Cowan, Guitar
PROGRAM
Lyric Pieces (arr. A Cicchillitti)
Op. 12
1. Arietta
2. Waltz
3. Elves’ Dance
Op. 47
4. Valse-impromptu
Fleurs de France (arr. S Cowan)
1. Jasmine de Provence (Andantino, alla Siciliana)
2. Coquelicot de Guyenne (Allegro brilliante)
3. Rose d’Anjou (Andantino tranquillo)
4. Tournesol de Languedoc (Allegro grazioso)
5. Anthémise su Rousillon (Andantino)
6. Lavandin de Haute-Provence (Allegretto grazioso)
7. Volubilis du Béarn (Andante cantabile)
8. Bleuet de Picardie (Allegramente)
Sonate pour harpe (arr. A. Cicchillitti)
1. Allegretto
2. Lento
3. Perpetuum mobile
Música Callada (arr. S. Cowan)
1. Angelico
2. Lento
3. Placide
4. Moderato
Prélude en la mineur (arr. A. Cicchillitti)
Menuet sur le nom de Haydn (arr. A. Cicchillitti)
À la manière de Borodin (arr. A. Cicchillitti)
Sonatine (arr. A. Cicchillitti)
1. Modéré
2. Mouvement de menuet
3. Animé
Edvard Grieg
Germaine Tailleferre
Federico Mompou
Maurice Ravel
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Sunday, March 16th – 4 P.M. Marco Corrales, Guitar Recital
PROGRAM
"Latino America Viva"
Pasaje Abierto Edin Solís (b. 1963)
From Brazilian Suite No. 4 Sergio Assad (b. 1952)
I. Caterete
II. Toada
III. Jongo
Colombian Suite No. 3 Gentil Montaña (1942-2011)
I. Pasillo
II. Danza
III. Guabina
IV. Bambuco
V. Porro
Choro da saudade Agustín Barrios Mangore (1885-1944) Variations on Punto Guanacasteco
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Sunday, March 16th – 6 P.M.
W.E. Duo
Erdong li, Guitar
Weiru Sheng, Violin
PROGRAM
All Piazzolla
History of the Tango Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992)
I. Bordel 1900
II. Café 1930
III. Night Club 1960
IV. Concert d’aujourd’hui
Libertango
Tanti Anni Prima (Arr. by Duo Bandini & Chiacchiaretta)
Escualo
Oblivion
Zita (Arr. by Duo Bandini & Chiacchiaretta)
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025 ARTIST BIOS
Dr. Isaac Bustos, Artistic Director (Nicaragua)
“Soulful and virtually flawless,” hails the Portland Oregonian and the Boston Globe writes, “In warm, round tones, the notes of Bach cascaded from the guitar, every note correct and played without hesitation.” Classical guitarist, pedagogue and educator Dr. Isaac Bustos, enjoys an extensive performing career that has taken him to Canada, Central America, Europe, China, and all over the US. Bustos has made several Radio and Television appearances and is in demand as clinician and master class teacher invited to perform in some of the most prestigious festivals around the globe. Dr. Bustos has acquired an impressive number of top prizes in over 12 major international competitions, 7 of which are first prizes. Isaac has premiered new guitar works by composers Nico Muhly, Blas Atehortúa, Samuel Zyman, Frank Wallace, Mark Cruz, Peter Lieuwen, and Joe Williams II. In the Spring of 2019, he premiered a new concerto for guitar and orchestra, commissioned and dedicated to him, by American composer Peter Lieuwen under the baton of maestro Franz Anton Krager and the University of Houston Symphony Orchestra. Isaac has recorded for the Delos, MSR and Vgo Recordings labels. Chamber music collaborations have included performances with the Grammy award-winning ensembles Los Angeles Guitar Quartet and Conspirare Choir, the Turtle Creek Chorale and legendary Mexican cellist Carlos Prieto. Bustos is also a founding member of the award-winning Texas Guitar Quartet and has released two critically acclaimed discs with the group. Highlights of the 2023-24 season included performances with the Chattanooga Symphony, Austin Classical Guitar, and Southwest Symphony, Orquesta Sinfonica de Cusco, and Camerata de Queretaro. Isaac holds a Bachelor of Music degree in guitar performance from the University of New Hampshire, a Master of Music degree and Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin, where he worked under the guidance of renowned American guitarist Adam Holzman. As an educator, his commitment to teaching is reflected in the success of his students whose prize-winning performances have included victories in numerous competitions around the Us. Dr. Bustos serves on the faculty at the University of Texas – San Antonio School of Music, where he is head of guitar studies and artistic director of the Southwest Guitar Symposium.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025 ARTIST BIOS
Alejandro Montiel (USA)
Described by Soundboard Magazine as a “flawless musician, filled to the brim with polished technique,” GRAMMY™ nominated guitarist & arranger Alejandro Montiel enjoys a performing career that has taken him throughout the United States, Mexico, China, Central America, and Europe. He holds graduate degrees from the Peabody Conservatory and the University of Texas at Austin, and is a founding member of the Texas Guitar Quartet. A champion of new works for guitar, Alejandro has premiered pieces by Joseph V. Williams, Mark Cruz, John Truitt, Brian Herrington, and Samuel Zyman. He was part of the instrumental ensemble for the US premiere of Andy Pape’s opera “Houdini The Great”, collaborated with cellist Bion Tsang on a new score by Joseph Williams for the Alfred Hitchcock silent film “The Lodger”, and was part of the 2015 world-premiere of Nico Muhly’s new work for chamber choir and guitar ensemble titled “How Little You Are.” More recently, he gave the Houston premiere of Clarice Assad’s “Three Sketches” for two guitars and violin. Besides being a regularly invited artist, adjudicator, and clinician for guitar festivals around the US, Dr. Montiel is the Guitar Ensemble director at UTSA School of Music and also directs the guitar studio at Lone Star College - Montgomery. Alejandro is also a sought-after chamber musician throughout Texas - notable collaborations include Grammy-winning Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, Grammy-winning choir Conspirare, soprano Estelí Gómez, Line Upon Line percussion group, violinist Jennifer Choi, flutist Julee Kim-Walker, clarinetist Håkan Rosengren, and cellist Louis-Marie Fardet. Additionally, Dr. Montiel has been featured on multiple recordings, including the Texas Guitar Quartet’s critically acclaimed debut album “RED” and its follow up, “ICON.” Alejandro resides in the San Antonio area with his family.
Cicchillitti – Cowan Guitar Duo (CANADA)
Adam Cicchillitti and Steve Cowan have established themselves as a leading duo in the world of classical guitar through their award-winning recordings, international tours, and commissions of major works. Winners of second prize (2023) and third prize (2021) at the prestigious Guitar Foundation of America competition, they also received the Classical Recording of the Year award at the East Coast Music Awards in 2021 for their album Focus. Their second album, Impressions intimes, was nominated in the same category in 2022, and their upcoming album, Lyrique, is set to be released on Analekta in 2025. The duo is renowned for their contributions to contemporary music. At the “21st Century Guitar” conference in Ottawa, they premiered nine electroacoustic works commissioned from the New Yorkbased ICEBERG collective. With support from the Canada Council for the Arts and the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec, they commissioned six new works for two guitars and orchestra, which will be featured on their album Re/String, scheduled for release in February 2025 with Leaf Music. The duo has performed on multiple national and international tours with prestigious organizations such as Début Atlantic and Prairie Debut. In 2025, they have additional tours planned in Texas, Rhode Island, New York, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. Adam and Steve are proud to be sponsored by Augustine Strings and play guitars crafted by Sergei de Jonge and Bruno Boutin.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025 ARTIST BIOS
Dr. Jourdan Laine Howell, Soprano (USA)
Jourdan Laine Howell is an active soloist, recitalist, and opera director. She recently performed as the soprano soloist in Vaughan Williams’ Sinfonia Antarctica with the San Antonio Philharmonic and Mozart’s Requiem under Yoojin Muhn. She has been featured with the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra, Symphony of the Hills, and at the Festival of New Music. She has also performed lead and comprimario roles with Palm Beach Opera, San Antonio Opera, and Amarillo Opera. Since joining the UTSA Lyric Theatre faculty in 2020, she has directed ten productions, including Cinderella, Die Zauberflöte, and Goyescas, with a strong focus on new and underrepresented works. Notably, she staged a U.S. premiere, five Texas premieres, and productions featuring all-female casts and Spanish-language operas. A champion of arts education and accessibility, Jourdan Laine previously served as Education & Community Engagement Manager for Palm Beach Opera, creating nationally recognized programs like Opera Out Loud and OPERA: Our Story. She spearheaded initiatives for audiences with disabilities, including sensory-friendly programming and accessibility tours. Dr. Howell earned her DMA from the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she performed lead roles and directed several productions. She holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in vocal performance from UTSA. She has presented at Opera America, the National Opera Conference, and the Southeastern Theatre Conference. Additionally, she has taught voice at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and West Texas A&M University and served as vocal technician for Dreyfoos School of the Arts. She is a student of Dr. Diana Allan and Dr. Robert Wells.
Allen Liu (USA)
Allen Liu, 18, is a senior at Westwood High School in Austin, Texas. He began playing classical guitar at the age of 6, and currently studies with Stephen Krishnan at the Orpheus Academy of Music and Adam Holzman at the University of Texas, Austin. Allen has won prizes in the 2021 Southern Guitar Festival in North Carolina, the 2023 Texas Guitar Festival in Dallas, and the 2024 Southwest Guitar Symposium in San Antonio. He is also a member of the Orpheus Honors Guitar Quartet. In addition to playing classical guitar, Allen participates in his school’s choir, robotics club and Chinese yo-yo club.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025 ARTIST BIOS
David Manzanares-Salguero (USA)
Having been described as “technically flawless,” David Manzanares-Salguero is a multi-award winning classical guitarist from Houston, Texas. David has been a finalist and has won first prize in many competitions, including but not limited to the Philadelphia Guitar Competition, Southwest Guitar Symposium, Florida Guitar Festival, Columbus Guitar Symposium, and the Houston Classical Guitar Festival. Some of his most recent notable performances include performing Vivaldi’s Concerto in A Major with the Peabody Concert Orchestra in Baltimore, MD and having been invited to perform at the Home of the Spanish Ambassador in Washington D.C. One of David’s passions is sharing his music with the community through outreach concerts. From 2021-2022, David was a performer for the Music for a While program at Peabody, aiming to bring music to the Johns Hopkins Hospital. David now has gone on to become the Musician in Residence at the Edenwald Senior Living Community where he performs and curates concert programs on a weekly basis for the independent and assisted living communities. David is also passionate about finding ways to make higher education more accessible for low-income students. He recently won the competitive Launch Grant from the Peabody Institute to fund the creation of “For the Future,” a college readiness program that guides high school classical guitarists facing financial barriers through the college application process. As a supporter and performer of new music, David has collaborated with a variety of composers, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to create new works for solo guitar and guitar ensemble. Recently, David received a Peabody Launchpad Grant to commission underrepresented composers to write guitar duets for the Mina Duo, a guitar duo he started with Gwenyth Aggeler. They will also be recording these commissions for an upcoming album, aiming to “give a voice to communities that are unheard.” As well, David has been awarded several scholarships to study and perform at many summer music programs like the Brevard Music Center, Boston Guitar Festival and most recently having received a full scholarship to attend the Aspen Music Festival. An avid teacher, David has taught many students whose ages range from 6 to 60. Since 2021, David has been faculty at the Summer Guitar Conservatory in Houston, Texas where he conducted and coached beginner to advanced level guitar ensembles. David also was invited to teach for the P.A.L.S. Program at the Aspen Music Festival in 2022. David has performed in masterclasses for Manuel Barrueco, Zoran Dukic, Grisha Goryachev, Adam Holzman, Sharon Isbin, Lorenzo Micheli, David Russell, Benjamin Verdery, and Jason Vieux. David received his Bachelor’s of Music at the Peabody Institute of Music studying with Dr. Thomas Viloteau. In the Fall of 2024, David will continue his studies at Peabody pursuing a Master’s of Music studying with Professor Manuel Barrueco.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025
ARTIST BIOS
W.E. Duo (USA/China)
W.E. Duo is the violin guitar duo that formed by guitarist Erdong Li and violinist Weiru Sheng. They have performed throughout America and China together, and have been acclaimed everywhere from Shenzhen Grant Theater to Beijing Music Video, from Liaoning International Guitar Festival to CSU Guitar Symposium. In their summer touring season, they have been invited for more than 15 concerts every summer all over in China and America, including major concert hall and international level festival and competitions. After hearing W.E. Duo’s playing, guitar artist Lorenzo Micheli said: “They will be one of the major voice in the chamber music in the future.” And the Italian artist Bandini and Chiacchiaretta has given many of their transcription to W.E. Duo. W.E. Duo has recorded their first CD (History of Tango) in 2018 after the first tour they did. And the album has won silver prize in the Global Music Awards.
Erdong Li is an international guitarist from China, he has won numerous prize in the competitions in the past, including Shenyang International Guitar Competition, Souther Guitar Festival, Changsha International Guitar Festival, Seoul International Guitar Competition, Liaoning International Guitar Competition and many others. He formed the W.E. Duo with Weiru together in 2016 and won the 1st prize in Southern Guitar Festival in the same year. In 2018 Erdong has joined the Li & Zohn guitar duo with his former professor Andrew Zohn, and touring all over the world as well. Erdong has been invited to perform and judge in many guitar or music competition and festivals, such as ECU Guitar Festival, CSU Guitar Festival, Solstice Guitar Symposium Changsha International Guitar Festival, Guangzhou International Guitar Festival, Southwest Guitar Symposium and many others. Erdong Li also to be known as a great teacher which his student has won many prizes in the international competition, such as CSU Guitar Symposium, Southern Guitar Festival and many others. And currently he is the brand ambassador artist of Augustine String(USA), Altamira Guitar(China), Leona Carbon Case(China).
Weiru Sheng is a soloist, chamber musician, teacher from China, she holds a master degree from the Schwob School of Music, Columbus State University. Weiru was named the second prize of the 2017 Regional(Southern)MTNA Artist String Division and second prize of 2017 LaGrange Symphony Orchestra concerto competition. Other rewards include Winner -2016 Georgia MTNA Artist String Division 2015 Atlanta Music Club Scholarship Competition, 2nd prize – 2015 Georgia MTNA Artist String Division, Winner – 2014 Georgia MTNA Artist String Division, Winner – Schowb School of Music Concerto Competition in 2013. Weiru was accepted by the Shanghai Conservatory School of Music. She has also won numerous competitions in China including 1st prize – Instrumental Competition of the Art Festival for middle and high school in the Zhejiang province, 1st prize – National Chamber Ensemble Competition in the Art Festival for middle and elementary school. Weiru has played numerous solo recitals. In 2016, she was invited to play for the former first lady Mrs. Carter. Along with guitarist Erdong Li, an international guitarist, they formed the W.E. duo. After winning the Southern Guitar Competition, they went on tour across China with over 20 concerts.
Weirus’ orchestral experience has included principal violinist of Columbus State Orchestra, Albany Symphony Orchestra, Lagrange Symphony Orchestra, and has been a member of the first violin section of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra in Columbus Georgia since her freshman year
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025
ARTIST BIOS
Marco Corrales (Costa Rica)
Marco Corrales is one of the most prominent guitarists in Central America. He began his studies at Conservatorio de Castella with Nuria Zúñiga. Later, he continued his higher studies in guitar at the University of Costa Rica with maestro Jorge Luis Zamora. Currently, he is studying for a Master’s degree in guitar at the University of Texas at San Antonio with maestro Isaac Bustos. Dedicated mainly to the performance of Latin-American music and to showcasing the work of living composers of the region, he has recorded four album productions, two of them including original works for guitar by Costa Rican composers: “Un Siglo de Guitarra Costarricense” and “Guitarra Viva Costa Rica”, and two others in co-production with composers, “Leyendas Costarricenses” with original music for solo guitar by Costa Rican composer José Arias, and “Sueños y sones”, with the complete works for guitar by Panamanian composer Emiliano Pardo-Tristán. This desire to show the music of Latin America has led him to play at festivals and different musical spaces in Costa Rica, USA, Mexico, Argentina, Panama, Colombia, El Salvador and Brazil. He has been awarded in national and international competitions, among them: First Prize at the International Guitar Competition Panama City (2018), Second Prize at the International Guitar Competition “Guitarra Sin Fronteras” (Mexico, 2015), Honorable Mention at the Havana International Guitar Competition (Cuba, 2016), Honorable Mention Southwest Guitar Competition (Texas, 2024) First Prize at the National Guitar Competition (Costa Rica, 2013), Second Prize at the International Guitar Competition “Promesas de la Guitarra” (Costa Rica, 2011), among others. He also has experience in chamber music and playing as a soloist with orchestras in his country such as Heredia Symphony Orchestra, Cartago Municipal Symphony Orchestra and UCR Symphony Orchestra.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025
ARTIST BIOS
Rubio-Reece Guitar Duo
The Rubio-Reece duo is comprised of Andrew Rubio and Jesse Reece, who met as graduate students at the University of Texas at San Antonio studying classical guitar performance. The two have been performing together since 2023, and have developed a style of performance that values clarity and balance. The duo is known for their beautiful sound and sensitive performances. Andrew Rubio is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio where he earned his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees under the guidance of Dr. Isaac Bustos. Originally from Houston, TX, Andrew resides in San Antonio where he has a small guitar studio of his own and a teaching position at the Institute of Musical Arts. As a musician in residence at one of Franklin Park’s Retirement facilities, Andrew performs weekly in the life enrichment program. Some recent competition accomplishments include 2nd place at the 2022 Southwest Guitar Symposium and a semifinalist at the 2022 Florida Guitar Festival and Competition. Classical guitarist and North Carolina native, Jesse Reece is known for delivering performances with a unique and sensitive voice. He has completed his Bachelor of Music at East Carolina University with Dr. Elliot Frank and is currently pursuing his Master of Music at The University of Texas at San Antonio with Dr. Isaac Bustos. Recently as part of Ex-Aequo’s Emerging Artist Residency program, Jesse was chosen to record solo works as well as give the world premiere of “Six by six” a piece written for guitar sextet by Sergio Assad. Jesse has found success in competitions as a finalist in many competitions in the United States including Southern Guitar Festival (2024), Columbus State University Guitar Symposium (2023), and Queen’s University Guitar Symposium (2023).
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025
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The Coronado High School Chamber Orchestra, Timothy Thomas, Director
Coronado High School Orchestra is a public school located in Henderson, NV, just south of Las Vegas, in the 5th Largest School District in the Country. Coronado HS stands out for its stellar Academic performance and rated a 5 Star School (highest rating) per the Nevada Performance Framework. The Orchestra is a shining jewel, performing both string and symphonic repertoire at dozens of concerts each school year from school auditoriums, to college halls, and a very special Saturday evening performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City in March 2024. In addition to over 10+ years of successive Superior Ratings received at district festivals, the Coronado Chamber Orchestra has received Gold Ratings at Forum, Heritage, and regional festivals. They have accompanied soloists from UNLV, Julliard, Eastman, and International conservatories. Many of our students perform for the Youth Orchestras in Las Vegas, qualify for District and State Level Ensembles, and attend Summer Camps throughout the United States. Coronado’s 2024 Graduating Class was awarded over $34 million in scholarships last May. Coronado HS Chamber Orchestra students currently are performing at Pepperdine, Stanford, Northwestern, North Texas, and NYU, amongst many other applauded programs. Their Director, Timothy Thomas, is in his 18th year of teaching orchestra in Las Vegas School and his third year at Coronado HS. Mr. Thomas boasts educator recognitions such as 2024 Nevada Music Educators Association Service Award, 2024 Young Artists Orchestra High School Teacher of the year, and 2022 Grammy Educator Semi Finalist. As a bass player he has performed regularly with the Boise Philharmonic, Boise Baroque Orchestra, Las Vegas Philharmonic, and is currently Principal Bass and seasonal Guest Conductor with the Henderson Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Thomas has served as guest conductor, clinician, and adjudicator in Nevada, Utah, Idaho, and Oregon.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025 SPONSORS
Altamira guitars are crafted from sustainably sourced, premium aged woods such as Spruce from Germany, Cedar from Spain, Rosewood from India, Cocobolo from Central America, and Maple from Canada. All Altamira guitars have a solid top, ensuring improved tone over time. Altamira guitars are meticulously handcrafted using traditional Spanish construction methods. Each guitar undergoes hand joining, binding (utilizing the traditional Spanish rope method), hand carving, shaping, and assembly to guarantee the creation of the highest quality instruments. Altamira guitars are constructed to optimise playability and stability. The neck on all guitars are reinforced with carbon to ensure stability over time and laser technology is utilised to ensure the playing action (height above strings) is balanced to ensure ease of playability along with projection.
Our mission at Austin Classical Guitar is to inspire individuals in our community through musical experiences of deep personal significance. Virtually everything we do is founded in our belief that music can be a uniquely powerful force for positive change in people’s lives – change in how we view ourselves and others, and how we understand the world around us. Through nationally-recognized education programs in schools that engage thousands of young people every year to personalized engagement services in hospitals, clinics, and shelters that bring comfort and hope to people in crisis, to concert programming that showcases the talents of artists from around the world, ACG seeks to leverage the power of music to help people find connection, meaning, and joy.
Augustine Strings’ mission is to produce strings that elevate every guitar to its fullest potential of sound and playability. Beyond manufacturing, donations, advocacy, platforming, networking, and direct financial support make Augustine an industry leader when it comes to ensuring the availability of musical education, especially for communities most in need.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025
SPONSORS
Casa de España in San Antonio is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting Spanish culture within the local community. Founded in 1979, it serves as a cultural and social hub for Spaniards and those who appreciate Spanish heritage, organizing events such as the Feria de Sevilla, Spain Day at the Cathedral, film screenings, concerts, and historical discussions. The organization also fosters connections with other Hispanic communities, universities, and cultural institutions to enhance awareness and appreciation of Spanish traditions.
With deep historical ties to San Antonio, Casa de España continues to honor Spain’s legacy in Texas while embracing the broader Hispanic cultural landscape. Through collaborations with institutions like UTSA, the San Antonio Museum of Art, and the Instituto Cervantes, it offers a variety of programs in literature, music, history, and the arts. Annual events, including the traditional Gala Dinner, soccer tournaments, and museum visits, provide opportunities for cultural exchange and community engagement.
Casa de España remains committed to keeping Spanish heritage alive in San Antonio, welcoming new generations and fostering a sense of connection through cultural and educational initiatives.
Established in 2023, Ear Bender Studios is a recording studio, outdoor venue, and lodging space for traveling artists in San Antonio’s historic Government Hill. Housed in a repurposed 100 year old home, Ear Bender offers recording, mixing, mastering, live sound, educational workshops, lessons, photography, and videography, the studio caters to local and touring musicians, voiceover artists, and corporate clients. With a garden-themed back yard for live events and accommodations for up to eight guests, the studio provides a unique space for artistic creation and relaxation. Ear Bender Studios is committed to delivering high-quality multimedia services while supporting the local music scene and fostering creative growth.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025 SPONSORS
The Institute Of Musical Arts (IOFMA) opened its doors in the summer of 2012, with the desire to offer anyone willing to try, the opportunity to Explore their creativity and Discover their talent in the Musical Arts. We believe music is one of the most wonderful ways to express yourself, relieve stress and learn about different cultures. Our goal is to offer a unique atmosphere where people can learn how to play an instrument in a fun, fulfilling and rewarding way.
We strive to create a very special experience for the student through incredibly personal & warm attention, in a place where mistakes are encouraged as part of the learning process and success is measured by the individual achievement of goals rather than the stress of having to meet a pre determined expectation.
For more info, call 210-939-7811 or email: staff@iofma.com
Performing at your best requires that your instrument be perfectly positioned for the way you play. The Sagework Guitar Support is designed to safely and securely hold your instrument in optimal position while you are seated. Intelligent design features make this support easy to adjust while ensuring stability, portability, and comfort.
Our patented support attaches to the instrument using magnetic attraction. The Sagework Guitar Support has been designed to be both elegant and practical. It is compact and can be quickly folded for storage in most guitar cases. The Sagework Guitar Support is meticulously engineered so that the player will enjoy improved comfort and technique as well as renewed confidence.
SOUTHWEST GUITAR SYMPOSIUM 2025
CONTEST PRIZES
Open Division Competition (No age limit)
1st Prize –
$1000 and paid return engagement for the 2026 Edition of the SWGS
A new Altamira classical guitar
2 paid engagements with Austin Classical Guitar
8 hours of studio time (includes tracking a solo single, mixing, and mastering)
2nd Prize –
$500
50% off the recording studio rates
3rd Prize –
* $300
50% off the recording studio rates
Highschool Competition (Up to age 19):
1st Prize –
Certificate and paid return engagement for the 2026 Edition of the SWGS
A new Altamira classical guitar
2nd Prize – Certificate
3rd Prize – Certificate
* Casa De España of San Antonio Special $500 Prize will be awarded for the best interpretation of a work by a Spanish Composer.
**All SWGS winners will receive gift packages from Augustine Strings and guitar supports by Sageworks Supports
