About
As a professional violinist with a background in classical training, I have cultivated my skills in both the classical and contemporary music realms. While I appreciate and excel in classical music, it is the path of contemporary music that truly ignites my passion. I am driven by the desire to effect positive change through my artistic endeavours, using music as a powerful medium to raise awareness about societal issues.
In my artistic journey, I am constantly seeking fruitful collaborations that allow me to explore new horizons and push the boundaries of my craft. I believe in the transformative power of music and the potential it holds to inspire, provoke thought, and spark meaningful conversations. I am committed to making a difference through my art and using it as a catalyst for positive societal impact.
If you share this vision and are interested in engaging in a collaboration, be it for performances, recordings, or any other creative endeavour, please reach out to me. I look forward to connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for music and a drive for meaningful change. Together, we can create something truly remarkable.
Biography
With a diverse range of experiences and a unique blend of skills, Gonçalo has carved out a distinct path in the world of classical music, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and students alike.
The journey began with a series of orchestral courses and festivals, where Gonçalo immersed himself in the rich tapestry of musical expression. One standout achievement was winning the prestigious first prize in the performance competition at the Festival Dias de Música Electrocacústica in Portugal, showcasing his extraordinary talent and dedication to the craft. This achievement laid the foundation for an illustrious career filled with incredible opportunities.
During Gonçalo's bachelor’s degree, a passion for education took root, leading to a rewarding career as a violin teacher. This calling led to the pursuit of a master’s in music education in 2017, where he explored innovative approaches to teaching, even undertaking a Mindfulness course to address performance anxiety. This transformative experience became the focal point of Gonçalo’s dissertation and subsequently influenced his teaching style. By incorporating mindfulness into their pedagogy, it empowers students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. This deep understanding of music teaching and theory has shaped Gonçalo's approach to education, instilling in him a profound belief in the power of music to inspire and transform lives.
Recognised for his exceptional talent and teaching prowess, Gonçalo was invited to lead masterclasses for violin and viola at the Conservatório d’Artes de Loures in Portugal. This institution embraces an inclusive educational approach, welcoming children from diverse backgrounds and fostering a love for lifelong learning. Gonçalo's involvement in this remarkable initiative deepened their understanding of teaching and reinforced his belief in the transformative role that music can play in society. This experience further solidified his commitment to imparting knowledge and experiences to the next generation of musicians.
Fuelled by an unquenchable desire to create and share music, Gonçalo founded the Vision Ensemble in 2014, an ensemble that brought together a string quartet, saxophone, and piano. The ensemble embarked on a captivating journey, performing in various prestigious venues, including art galleries and arts centres. But Gonçalo took it a step further by infusing purpose and meaning into his creative projects. Reviving the Ensemble for his second year of Masters, Gonçalo collaborated with a singer, saxophonist, and spearheaded a successful fundraising campaign for an LGBT charity, Stonewall.
In addition to Gonçalo's dedication to education, he has also made a mark as a performer. He has been involved in orchestral and violin solo recording sessions, multidisciplinary projects, contemporary music, and improvisation: from Opera to Musical Theatre at the West End, to most recently started curating his own creative projects. His versatility and willingness to explore new avenues of musical expression have allowed him to continuously push the boundaries of their artistry.