Principal Viola
The Dr. Jefferson and Mrs. June Flowers Chair
Member since: 2008
Hometown: Cochabamba, Bolivia
Hobbies/Interests: Racquetball, soccer, tennis, and ping pong
Music has always been an important part of my life. It follows me everywhere I go. What I love about music is that is universal, and it speaks to everyone no matter your nationality or personal beliefs.
Dr. Mauricio Céspedes is a conductor, violist, and educator who serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Instrumental Ensembles at Valencia College, as well as Guest Conductor and Principal Viola with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. He has conducted a wide range of orchestral, pops, and educational programs in Orlando and as a guest conductor in the United States and internationally.
Dr. Céspedes received orchestral conducting training at The Juilliard School under Mark Shapiro. He holds a Doctor of Music Performance degree from Florida State University and a Master’s degree in Viola Performance from Michigan State University.
He is also the Artistic Director of the Orlando Philharmonic Summer Camp, where he mentors young musicians from across Florida and internationally. Mauricio is married to Emily McLoughlin, and they have two children, Michael and Maggie.
