معرفی
Francisco Castillo serves as Lecturer in Music specializing in oboe at Pomona College. He holds concurrent positions as principal oboist with the California Philharmonic Orchestra and Redlands Symphony, while maintaining active performance schedules across Southern California orchestras and chamber ensembles. His teaching extends to University of Redlands, Pasadena City College, Idyllwild Arts Academy, and Los Angeles County High School for the Arts.
Castillo earned his Master of Music in oboe performance from University of Southern California and completed bachelor's studies plus 'licenciatura' at University of Costa Rica.
His artistic practice integrates oboe performance, chamber music direction, and composition with deep engagement in Latin American musical traditions. The Bolero Project & Más CD exemplifies his scholarly interpretation of Latin romanticism, while his compositional output spans solo works to full orchestral scores. He maintains active research in double reed pedagogy and cross-cultural performance practices.
Castillo's compositional trajectory reveals consistent exploration of cultural identity through orchestral forms, evolving from early nationalist works like Tupac Amaru to Olympic-themed commissions. His output demonstrates technical mastery of double reed instrumentation while incorporating Latin American rhythmic structures and melodic sensibilities, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary American classical music.
Major recognition includes:
- Costa Rican National Prize 'Aquilio J. Echeverría' (1979) for Tupac Amaru
He receives consistent acclaim as an oboe pedagogue with students securing positions in major US orchestras and winning national competitions. Commissioning bodies include Pasadena Arts Council (Concerto for Pasadena, Olympic Overture) supporting new work creation.
Castillo co-hosted the 2013 International Double Reed Conference at University of Redlands, convening 1,200+ global participants. His premiere performances, such as the Rhapsody for Oboe, English Horn and Orchestra with Liang Wang, demonstrate leadership in expanding the double reed repertoire through collaborative artistic ventures.
