Music Education

For Rodrigo, sharing his experiences is truly captivating. Rodrigo has been engaged in various phases of an artistic career. He has gained experience by playing and conducting youth, university, community, and (in) professional ensembles. Furthermore, for over a decade, he has been responsible for leading a noticeable youth program and a university program in probably the oldest and biggest school in Argentina. This is the reason he created the Orchestral Laboratory, a space for sharing those experiences in a horizontal approach, quite distinct from a traditional master class or lecture.

1. Personal Statement

-English-

I discovered from a very young age that I have a deep passion for teaching, which personally drives me every day to become a better artist and educator. My aspiration is to inspire my students and musicians to give their best.

I firmly believe that the responsible practice of our profession is imbued with a set of moral and spiritual values that impact not only artists and educators but also the community.

An orchestra can be likened to a miniature society, a living organism with inclinations, desires, wills, and aspirations... This organism requires positive leadership to achieve perfect symbiosis

I believe in sharing these experiences and consider pedagogy as the transmission of experiences to be the key. This allows us to think of "The Orchestra" not just as a musical project but also as an element that becomes integrated into the community's identity, with the aim of contributing to creating a better world.

I offer all the knowledge and experiences accumulated over more than 20 years of work, including children, youth, community, university, and professionals. ensembles.

-Spanish-

Descubrí desde muy pequeño que me encanta enseñar. Es una pasión que me impulsa personalmente día a día para lograr ser mejor artista y docente. Aspiro a motivar a mis alumnos y músicos para dar lo mejor.

Creo firmemente que el ejercicio responsable de nuestra profesión contiene una serie de valores morales y espirituales que nos atraviesan tanto a artistas como educadores y al público en general.

Una Orquesta es una sociedad en miniatura que se manifiesta como un organismo vivo. Con tendencias, deseos, voluntades y aspiraciones...

Este organismo necesita un liderazgo positivo, para lograr la simbiosis perfecta.

Creo en compartir estas experiencias y pensar la pedagogía como una transmisión de experiencias es la clave.

Para poder pensar ¨La Orquesta¨ más allá de un proyecto musical. Sino también como un elemento que se integra a la identidad comunidad, con el deseo de contribuir a lograr un mundo mejor.

Pongo a disposición todos los conocimientos y experiencias vividas en más de 20 años de trabajo, incluyendo ensambles infantiles, juveniles, universitarios y profesionales.

2. Youth Orchestra

Youth Orchestras

He led the AMIA youth orchestra (Ages 9-21) as a founding member, serving as the artistic & pedagogy director for 12 years. Inspired and assisted by teachers from “El Sistema” (Venezuela). His experience extended to recruiting, fundraising, budgeting, auditioning, and program design to fulfill its objectives. From the search process of professional staff to recruiting the students. And post-project follow-up.

This project involved 60 to 80 students per cycle, in socially vulnerable situations. It addresses specific issues that can encompass dysfunctional families, economic hardships, nutritional problems, discrimination, and much more.

The program promoted the inclusion of cultural, political, and religious diversities from an early age. Music learning is used as a means of individual development (through instruments) in service of a community goal (the orchestra).

The program has yielded remarkably positive results, including improvements in academic performance, enhanced social behaviors, and a noticeable boost in self-esteem. Many of the young musicians have grown and changed their path, developing into professional young adults in both the field of music and other specialties.

The program gained significant recognition and was featured in various national media outlets, including radio, television, newspapers, and the web.

It garnered over a hundred mentions in high-profile media and even served as an inspiration for Lic. Martha Romero, a member of a prominent journalism family, wrote her thesis on the AMIA project and earned her degree (Cultural Management) as a result.

https://www-infobae-com.translate.goog/sociedad/2021/03/07/una-orquesta-especial-los-ninos-pobres-desean-tener-una-oportunidad-de-crecer-y-la-musica-tiene-logros-impresionantes/?_x_tr_sl=es&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp

According to Wikipedia Infobae is becoming one of the most read Spanish-language online newspapers worldwide.

It even received a special visit from Maestro Zubin Mehta.

3. University Orchestra

University Program Development

The National University of the Arts (UNA - Argentina) stands as one of the most prestigious universities in Latin America, drawing students from across the continent.

https://musicalesysonoras.una.edu.ar/docentes/gonzalez-jacob-rodrigo_1959

Rodrigo Gonzalez-Jacob holds the distinction of being the youngest director/conductor hired to lead its program for 14 years. His journey began with an ensemble of self-driven advanced students who undertook challenging programs under Gonzalez-Jacob's guidance, while he was a student. In 2008, this ensemble was officially institutionalized, leading to the establishment of the University's Camerata UNA. With seven years of successful development, Rodrigo was promoted to the position of Director of Orchestral Studies at the University, and getting tenured in recognition for the track accomplishments.

The program has garnered international attention, fostering partnerships with educational and artistic institutions within and outside the country. It has facilitated Concerto Competitions, Conducting Fellowships, Composition Premieres, Festivals, the creation of an Opera Department, and symphonic choral projects.

Rodrigo has crafted, developed, and supervised the program: pedagogically and artistically. Including Season Programming, Student Recruitment, as well as instructor auditions, community engagement, and youth concert programs.

Today, alumni of the program have gone on to secure professional positions in the country's leading orchestras like Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional (National Symphonic Orchestra). Moreover, members of the conducting fellowship have achieved success by winning top south-american international competitions and securing their initial professional roles in the field.

During COVID he was hired by Universidad Chaco-Austral. To impart online conducting lectures for 6 months that attracted over 200 students from LATAM.

http://spnoticias.com.ar/2021/07/20/comenzo-el-seminario-virtual-de-introduccion-a-la-direccion-orquestal-organizado-en-conjunto-con-la-fundacion-pradier-redes-culturales/

Rodrigo also worked in Universidad Nacional de Rio Negro as an associate professor of orchestral conducting for the Patagonian Artist Diploma.

https://www.unrn.edu.ar/archivos/noticia/2654/Diplomatura%20de%20Musica%20-%20Docentes.pdf

Today, Rodrigo Gonzalez-Jacob not only shines as a musical conductor but also stands out as the driving force behind one of Argentina's most ambitious pedagogical programs.

4. Conducting LAB

Orchestral Conducting LAB

-English-

The Orchestral Laboratory is a space for discussion, testing, and exploration of the tasks of the conductor.

Aimed at all those musicians who are taking their first steps in the task, or want to advance further in their development.

Unlike the usual seminars, what distinguishes the laboratory is the exploratory approach based on the phenomenon of communication, moving away from the traditional approach seen in conservatories, universities, or academies. In order to extend and provide a number of tools based on exploration (with a pragmatic approach) that nurture and expand the mandatory knowledge learned in the traditional academy.

Based on more than 15 years of experience as Director of Orchestras and Conductor of continuous work-experiences. Ranging from youth, university, community, and professional orchestras.

-Spanish-

El Laboratorio Orquestal es un espacio de discusión, prueba y exploración de los quehaceres de la dirección musical orientada a todos aquellos músicos que están dando sus primeros pasos en la tarea.

A diferencia de los seminarios habituales, lo que distingue el laboratorio es el enfoque exploratorio basado en el fenómeno de la comunicación, alejándose del enfoque tradicional que se trabaja en los conservatorios, universidades o academias. De este modo se busca extender y brindar una cantidad de herramientas en base en la exploración -con un enfoque pragmático- que nutran y expandan los saberes necesarios aprendidos en la academia tradicional.

Basado en más de 15 años de experiencia ininterrumpida como director titular e invitado.

5th Edition (2022) / UNA - National University of Arts - /Click Here/

6 intense days of Workshop

With OFFICIAL CERTIFICATE

10Hs Theoretical Classes + 18hs Rehearsal time with Chamber Orchestra + Closure Concert

Repertoire: Bartok Hungarian Dances / Haydn Cello Concerto in D / Albert Roussel Sinfonietta Op.52 / Ernest Bloch Concerto Grosso Nº1

Special Guests:

Mtro. Anton Franz Krager (University of Houston)

Mtro. Jooyong Ahn (former. University of Tennessee)

Mtra. Natalia Larangeira (Teatro Colon)

Johannes Mantler (former Wiener Staatsoper)

Special Guests:

Mtro. Anton Franz Krager (University of Houston) USA

Mtro. Jooyong Ahn (former. University of Tennessee) USA/KOREA

Mtra. Natalia Larangeira (Teatro Colon) ARGENTINA/BRAZIL

Johannes Mantler (former Wiener Staatsoper) AUSTRIA

Mtro. Franz Krager from the Tuscany

Reharsal Technique / Ernest Bloch

With the Collaboration of Johannes Mantler (Wiener Staatsoper)

Working on Haydn in D Cello Concerto Accompaniment

Dress Reharsal

QA with Professor Jooyong Ahn from Dallas

Theoretical Framework discussion

With Natalia Larangeira / Teatro Colon Assistant

UNA Chamber Orchestra

4th Edition (2021) / UNCAUS - Universidad Chaco Austral / ONLINE SEMINAR due COVID /CLICK HERE/

16 Online Modules in 4 months + 150 Students from LATAM (Argentina, Chile, Brasil, Mexico, Colombia and Paraguay)

With OFFICIAL CERTIFICATE

Theoretical Classes + Rehearsal Technique + Repertoire + Administration + Fundraising + Project Management

5 different focus on Youth Orchestra / University Orchestra / Professional Orchestra / Bands / Amateur Ensembles

Special Guests:

Mtro. Benjamin Zander (Boston Symphony)

Mtro. Benzecry (National Youth Orchestra, Arg.)

Special Guests:

Mtro. Benjamin Zander (Boston Symphony) USA

Mtro. Benzecry (National Youth Orchestra) ARG

Exposition on subjects

Mtro. Benjamin Zander (Boston Symphony) Collaboration

+ 150 Students LATAM

Mtro. Benzecry (National Youth Symphony) Collaboration

3th Edition (2020) /UNA - National University of Arts/ ONLINE SEMINAR due COVID

6 Online Modules in 2 months / 3hs each + 150 Students from LATAM (Argentina, Chile, Brasil, Mexico, Colombia and Paraguay)

Dissertation of Mtro. Gonzalez-Jacob with a specialized guest each module.

Module 1 / General Introduction of Conductors duties and responsibilities

Module 1 bis / challenges of the young conductors with collaboration of Mtro. Benzecry (Youth National Orchestra)

Module 2 / Internal Organization of an Orchestra - Master Studies and Choral Conductor Development with Collaboration of Mariana Rosas

Module 3 / Different profiles of Conductors and discussion of the future perspective of Classical Music with the Collaboration of Boris (Specialized journalist and director)

Module 4 / Tradition and Opera with the collaboration of Mtro. Carlos Vieu

Module 5 / Strategic Programming with Ciro Ciliberto (Artistic Director National Symphonic Orchestra / ARG) Part 1

Module 6 / Strategic Programming with Ciro Ciliberto (Artistic Director National Symphonic Orchestra / ARG) Part 2

Special Guests:

Mtro. Benzecry + Mtra. Mariana Rosas AR/UK + Boris AR + Mtro. Carlos Vieu AR + Ciro Ciliberto OSN

+ 150 Students LATAM

Mtro. Benzecry (National Youth Symphony) Collaboration

Mariana Rosas Choir Conductor (UK)

Boris Laures - Professor, Journalist and Director

Carlos Vieu Conductor.

Ciro Ciliberto - Artistic Director National Symphonic Orchestra

2nd Edition (2019) / ACR - Asociacion Clasica Riojana /

5 Days Intensive Workshop with selected conductors

With OFFICIAL CERTIFICATE

Theoretical Classes + Rehearsal Technique + Repertoire + Study Guides + Conducting Technique

5 different focus on Youth Orchestra / University Orchestra / Professional Orchestra / Bands / Amateur Ensembles

Study Classes with selected conductors

Conductors Selection Ceremony

Closure Concert with conductors

Professors Staff

5. Testimonials

Student Feedback/Testimonials

Me enriqueció mucho aún estando en el atril, me llevo esta linda experiencia que me hizo ver todo el trabajo y estudio que conlleva dirigir, no es solo dirigir la música que está en el papel sino también poder tener una conexión con la orquesta y eso lo pude ver mucho más en este último ensayo. Gracias por este laboratorio, y por muchos más ojalá!

I gained a lot from this experience, even while standing at the podium. It has enriched me and given me a deeper appreciation for all the effort and dedication required in conducting. It's not just about leading the music written on the score; it's also about establishing a connection with the orchestra, which I was able to witness more clearly in our recent rehearsal. Thank you for this opportunity, and I hope for many more in the future!

---------------------

Una semana muy enriquecedora para jóvenes directores y para la Orquesta Académica, que supo ponerse a la altura de este nuevo laboratorio musical lleno de invitados de altísimo nivel y un gran entusiasmo por parte de los participantes.

A highly enriching week for young conductors and the Academic Orchestra, which rose to the occasion in this new musical workshop filled with high-caliber guests and great enthusiasm from the participants.

---------------------

La dirección a cargo del Maestro González Jacob no tuvo fallas, siempre atento a cada detalle, puso todos sus conocimientos a disposición, con una energía inagotable y su simpatía que supo distender algún momento en donde los nervios se apoderaron de algún participante. Gran trabajo!!

Maestro Gonzalez Jacob's leadership was flawless, always attentive to every detail, offering all his expertise with tireless energy and his affable nature, which helped ease moments when nerves got the better of some participants. Outstanding job!

---------------------

Creo que la experiencia del laboratorio fue algo que nos sirvió muchísimo a todos los que participamos. Tanto activos como oyentes.

En un primer momento temía no poder seguir el ritmo o perder el interés ya que sólo podía estar como oyente. En mi caso particular no tengo videos dirigiendo. Por más que se dio la oportunidad de tener la experiencia a quienes estaban de oyentes, me hubiese gustado que existiesen otros requisitos para participar como activos (si bien entiendo la importancia de los videos y el poco tiempo con el que se cuenta para trabajar). Aun así, cada día valió la pena y aprendí mucho de las observaciones a mis compañeros, a la orquesta, a las palabras/consejos/enseñanzas que nos daba cada director. Fue muy sorprendente y un gran privilegio contar con directores de otros países de mucha trayectoria y experiences.

I believe that the lab experience was incredibly valuable for all of us who participated, both as active participants and as observers. Initially, I was concerned that I might struggle to keep up or lose interest since I could only attend as an observer. In my particular case, I don't have any videos of myself conducting. While there was an opportunity for observers to participate, I would have liked to see additional requirements for active participation (even though I understand the importance of videos and the limited time available for the program). Nonetheless, every day was worthwhile, and I learned a great deal from observing my fellow participants, the orchestra, and the words/advice/instruction from each conductor. It was truly remarkable and a great privilege to have experienced directors from other countries with extensive backgrounds and expertise.

---------------------

Me llevo mucho del ensayo, para mí era un problema el no saber cómo ensayar o desde dónde plasmar las ideas en cuanto a lo interpretativo de las obras. Es algo que en general no se enseña o se hace muy poco. Además, pude rescatar cómo el director comunica sus ideas y cómo son “traducidas” por los instrumentistas.

Rodrigo, nuevamente agradezco un montón tu generosidad, que puedas darnos tus conocimientos, experiencias y que generes un ambiente donde podamos sentirnos cómodos, no evaluados o juzgados dentro de lo que se hace mal, y que eso al mismo tiempo genere un ambiente de amabilidad de parte de la orquesta y entre nosotros, propiciando el compartir proyectos, el ir a vernos a los ensayos, que es algo que antes no hubiese pensado que se podía o nos iba a enriquecer. Creo que estos días nos dieron un nuevo impulso para seguir haciendo música. ¡Gracias por todo!

I gained a lot from the rehearsal. One of my challenges was not knowing how to rehearse or where to express interpretative ideas about the pieces. This is something that, in general, is not taught or addressed very often. Additionally, I was able to observe how the conductor conveys their ideas and how they are "translated" by the musicians.

Rodrigo, once again, I want to express my deep gratitude for your generosity in sharing your knowledge and experiences, and for creating an environment where we can feel comfortable, unjudged for our mistakes. This, in turn, fosters a friendly atmosphere within the orchestra and among us, encouraging the sharing of projects and attending each other's rehearsals, something I hadn't considered before, but I now see as enriching. I believe these days have given us a renewed drive to continue making music. Thank you for everything!

Student Feedback/Testimonials

Me enriqueció mucho aún estando en el atril, me llevo esta linda experiencia que me hizo ver todo el trabajo y estudio que conlleva dirigir, no es solo dirigir la música que está en el papel sino también poder tener una conexión con la orquesta y eso lo pude ver mucho más en este último ensayo. Gracias por este laboratorio, y por muchos más ojalá!

I gained a lot from this experience, even while standing at the podium. It has enriched me and given me a deeper appreciation for all the effort and dedication required in conducting. It's not just about leading the music written on the score; it's also about establishing a connection with the orchestra, which I was able to witness more clearly in our recent rehearsal. Thank you for this opportunity, and I hope for many more in the future!

---------------------

Una semana muy enriquecedora para jóvenes directores y para la Orquesta Académica, que supo ponerse a la altura de este nuevo laboratorio musical lleno de invitados de altísimo nivel y un gran entusiasmo por parte de los participantes.

A highly enriching week for young conductors and the Academic Orchestra, which rose to the occasion in this new musical workshop filled with high-caliber guests and great enthusiasm from the participants.

---------------------

La dirección a cargo del Maestro González Jacob no tuvo fallas, siempre atento a cada detalle, puso todos sus conocimientos a disposición, con una energía inagotable y su simpatía que supo distender algún momento en donde los nervios se apoderaron de algún participante. Gran trabajo!!

Maestro Gonzalez Jacob's leadership was flawless, always attentive to every detail, offering all his expertise with tireless energy and his affable nature, which helped ease moments when nerves got the better of some participants. Outstanding job!

---------------------

Creo que la experiencia del laboratorio fue algo que nos sirvió muchísimo a todos los que participamos. Tanto activos como oyentes.

En un primer momento temía no poder seguir el ritmo o perder el interés ya que sólo podía estar como oyente. En mi caso particular no tengo videos dirigiendo. Por más que se dio la oportunidad de tener la experiencia a quienes estaban de oyentes, me hubiese gustado que existiesen otros requisitos para participar como activos (si bien entiendo la importancia de los videos y el poco tiempo con el que se cuenta para trabajar). Aun así, cada día valió la pena y aprendí mucho de las observaciones a mis compañeros, a la orquesta, a las palabras/consejos/enseñanzas que nos daba cada director. Fue muy sorprendente y un gran privilegio contar con directores de otros países de mucha trayectoria y experiences.

I believe that the lab experience was incredibly valuable for all of us who participated, both as active participants and as observers. Initially, I was concerned that I might struggle to keep up or lose interest since I could only attend as an observer. In my particular case, I don't have any videos of myself conducting. While there was an opportunity for observers to participate, I would have liked to see additional requirements for active participation (even though I understand the importance of videos and the limited time available for the program). Nonetheless, every day was worthwhile, and I learned a great deal from observing my fellow participants, the orchestra, and the words/advice/instruction from each conductor. It was truly remarkable and a great privilege to have experienced directors from other countries with extensive backgrounds and expertise.

---------------------

Me llevo mucho del ensayo, para mí era un problema el no saber cómo ensayar o desde dónde plasmar las ideas en cuanto a lo interpretativo de las obras. Es algo que en general no se enseña o se hace muy poco. Además, pude rescatar cómo el director comunica sus ideas y cómo son “traducidas” por los instrumentistas.

Rodrigo, nuevamente agradezco un montón tu generosidad, que puedas darnos tus conocimientos, experiencias y que generes un ambiente donde podamos sentirnos cómodos, no evaluados o juzgados dentro de lo que se hace mal, y que eso al mismo tiempo genere un ambiente de amabilidad de parte de la orquesta y entre nosotros, propiciando el compartir proyectos, el ir a vernos a los ensayos, que es algo que antes no hubiese pensado que se podía o nos iba a enriquecer. Creo que estos días nos dieron un nuevo impulso para seguir haciendo música. ¡Gracias por todo!

I gained a lot from the rehearsal. One of my challenges was not knowing how to rehearse or where to express interpretative ideas about the pieces. This is something that, in general, is not taught or addressed very often. Additionally, I was able to observe how the conductor conveys their ideas and how they are "translated" by the musicians.

Rodrigo, once again, I want to express my deep gratitude for your generosity in sharing your knowledge and experiences, and for creating an environment where we can feel comfortable, unjudged for our mistakes. This, in turn, fosters a friendly atmosphere within the orchestra and among us, encouraging the sharing of projects and attending each other's rehearsals, something I hadn't considered before, but I now see as enriching. I believe these days have given us a renewed drive to continue making music. Thank you for everything!

6. Music Festivals

Rodrigo has gained recognition for his strong inclination toward working with youth ensembles. From his earliest experiences, the chemistry is simply remarkable. The rehearsal dynamics create an immediate rapport between the ensemble and the conductor. Combined with Rodrigo's extensive experience with student and professional ensembles, he has been frequently invited to participate, lead, and even design the core programming for internationally renowned festivals. Notable among these are the International Brass Festival, the YOA Festival, and the Pradier Foundation Festival.

Since his initial participation in 2015, Rodrigo has continuously engaged in various festivals, fostering connections between musicians and institutions. He has been both a witness and an accomplice to the professional growth of an entire generation of young musicians. Within these festivals, Rodrigo has composed, adapted, arranged, and conducted various musical pieces to harness the maximum potential of his students. Simultaneously, he has been involved in student recruitment campaigns, faculty selection, and the establishment of the festival's core structure. In recent editions, he has delivered practical score study classes and ensemble direction. Rodrigo has honed his expertise in resource management, focusing on the development of cultural and educational projects.