Meet Cellist Juan Sebastián Delgado: A New Addition to the UMBC Faculty Elevating Music Education

The University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) has announced that Juan Sebastián Delgado will join its cello faculty starting in the 2025 academic year. Previously, he served as the faculty’s fellow for diversity in the arts from 2023 to 2025.

Originally from Argentina, Delgado excels in contemporary music and Nuevo Tango. He completed his doctoral studies under Matt Haimovitz at McGill University, focusing on tango’s rich history.

Delgado is also the dedicatee of three notable cello concertos, including Pájaro contra el borde de la noche, commissioned by Radio France, and Cinco Tangos Apócrifos for cello and strings, showcasing his collaborative spirit in the classical music world. His latest work, The Night of a Capricious Dawn, composed by Jason Noble, highlights the evolving role of cello in modern compositions.

In addition to his solo work, Delgado is part of the duo Stick&Bow, which features marimba and cello. They perform original and newly commissioned pieces, sharing their music at various Canadian festivals and acclaimed venues, like the National Arts Centre. Their performances aim to blend different sounds and engage the audience in new ways.

As a teacher, Delgado has led masterclasses at prestigious institutions, including Concordia University and the Boston Conservatory. His diverse teaching experiences enrich his upcoming role at UMBC. He expressed his excitement about joining a vibrant public university known for innovative research and creativity. Delgado is particularly looking forward to working with Ruckus, UMBC’s new music ensemble, further expanding his artistic horizons.

Adding to Delgado’s significance, research shows that exposure to diverse musical styles is essential for students. According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, engaging with various genres enhances creativity and critical thinking skills in young musicians. This aligns well with Delgado’s background in diverse musical traditions.

As music education continues to evolve, Delgado’s experience and enthusiasm are set to inspire a new generation at UMBC, reinforcing the importance of creativity in academic settings.

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