Dr. Gabriela Calderón Cornejo completed Bachelor’s and Licentiate’s degrees with emphasis in Piano Performance at the University of Costa Rica, and a Master’s Degree at Ithaca College. She then completed her Doctor of Arts degree with a major in Piano Performance and a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Music at Ball State University.
A native of Costa Rica, Gabriela continues to play as a solo performer, chamber musician, and collaborative pianist. She has been an essential member of vocal and instrumental ensembles in both Costa Rica and the United States. Her diverse experiences have included performing with opera workshops, wind ensembles, symphonic and concert bands, symphonic orchestras, choirs, and chamber groups. Gabriela’s love of variety has led her to participate in projects ranging from inaugural concerts of grand pianos, solo and collaborative recitals across the U.S, world premiere of compositions, and involvement with productions from the National Theater Company of Costa Rica. Recently, her work in rediscovering, adapting and promoting previously undigitized works by Latin American female composers has been featured at international conferences culminating in the release of her first studio album and anthology Musas (www.gabrielacalderonc.com/musas).
Gabriela is an active member of the nation’s most prominent music organizations and contributes to the profession by serving as a board member for the Cayambis Institute for Latin American Studies in Music (CILASiM), the Branch Recital Director for the Music Teacher’s Association of California (MTAC) – San Mateo County, and an active adjudicator for the Certificate of Merit. Her teaching opportunities have provided her with extensive experience in working with students from all ages, levels, and backgrounds, both professionals and hobbyists. Her diverse teaching experiences involve several community music schools, outreach programs, and higher education institutions. Currently, it is her ambition to continue to pursue musical growth, share her knowledge, and watch the development and progress of both younger and older artists.