Gonzalo Farias is an engaging orchestral conductor, award-winning pianist, and dedicated educator who serves as Associate Conductor of the Houston Symphony. Praised for his “clear, engaging style with a lyrical, almost Zen-like quality,” he has led numerous performances, including high-profile concerts on short notice, earning critical recognition for both musical insight and execution. Farias is guided by a belief in music-making as a social practice that fosters trust, cooperation, and shared responsibility within communities. His career includes roles with the Kansas City, Jacksonville, Baltimore, and Virginia Symphonies, as well as impactful, community-focused initiatives during his tenure as Music Director of the Joliet Symphony Orchestra. Recent and upcoming engagements include collaborations with major U.S. orchestras and world premieres.

Hailed for his commanding and expressive performances, Venezuelan-American violinist and violist Paul Aguilar was named Second Prize Laureate and Audience Prize winner in the Senior Division of the 2025 Sphinx Competition. He is a member of the Houston Symphony viola section and maintains an active international career as a soloist and chamber musician, presenting more than 40 recitals annually.