One SFCM graduate will soon be taking his sky-high talent to the soaring temperatures of Phoenix, AZ. 

Harry Gonzalez ('17) will be joining the Phoenix Symphony this October as Associate Principal/2nd Trombone. "I am really excited to start," Gonzalez said. "I am honored." 

During his time as a trombone student, Gonzalez remembers being "fortunate enough to work with Mark Lawrence," but that many other faculty members played a part in his education. "Professors Tim Higgins and Paul Welcomer always made time to hear me play or answer many of my seemingly endless questions. As a result I feel that my concept of playing is a combination of the entire trombone faculty," he said.

"I remember Harry as a super energetic, earnest, hard-working student," said SFCM professor Paul Welcomer, who was thrilled to hear of Gonzalez' recent success, "He was a great student who was always eager to improve," he added.

Gonzalez also remembers time at the Conservatory as formative to where he is today. "It cannot be understated that the proximity to major arts organizations like SFS/SFO/SFB (San Francisco's Symphony, Opera, and Ballet)  impacts the development of music students at SFCM. I was lucky to attend concerts each week and tried to envision myself sitting in one of the trombone chairs."

Currently Gonzalez is a trombonist and educator based in Houston, TX. Professional appearances include the Houston Symphony, Houston Grand Opera, San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera, Ft. Worth Symphony, Austin Symphony, and Austin Opera.

As far as advice for current students? Gonzalez encourages them to keep an open mind and appreciate your time as a student, "I would encourage students to remain open to the idea of learning from other disciplines," Gonzalez continued, "The community at SFCM is filled with artists who are dedicating themselves to contributing something genuine and meaningful to society and that is an inspiring place to be."

Learn more about studying trombone at SFCM.