Dr. Arturo Ortega, renowned conductor of Robson Ranch Community Choir
Robin Brewton
Dr. Arturo Ortega, a renowned conductor and distinguished educator, has served at the helm of the Robson Ranch Choir for the past 10 years. Under Dr. Ortega’s guidance, the choir has flourished, attracting members from varied backgrounds who share a love for singing and bringing music to our community.
With a background in choral conducting and music education, Dr. Ortega brings a wealth of experience to the Robson Choir. Hailed as one of the most dynamic conducting talents of his generation, Dr. Ortega made his debut at age 19, with his earliest training being in his hometown with the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra. This led him to the San Antonio Symphony where international conductors and soloists hosted by the ensemble soon became mentors of his young but exceptional talent.
Dr. Ortega attended the University of North Texas College of Music, studying with the world-renowned conductor Anshel Brusilow, former concertmaster of the Cleveland and Philadelphia Orchestras and music director of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Soon he was invited to the prestigious Pierre Monteux School for Conductors in Hancock, Maine, on a full scholarship.
Dr. Ortega earned master’s and doctoral degrees in conducting from UNT and enjoys collaborations with some of the world’s most celebrated international orchestras, choruses, and solo artists. Before completing his studies, he was named semi-finalist for an assistant conductor position with the Chicago Symphony, one of the world’s foremost orchestras.
In addition to being at the helm of the Robson Ranch Community Choir, Dr. Ortega is music director of Voices of Flower Mound Choir and has directed acclaimed productions of Les Misérables, West Side Story, and other musical theatre productions.
The Robson Choir is incredibly fortunate to be under the leadership of Dr. Ortega. Dr. Ortega emphasizes the importance of collaboration and camaraderie among choir members, and his vision is not only to elevate the choir’s musical standards but also to foster friendships that last beyond rehearsals. Under his direction, the choir performs annual concerts in the spring, on Veterans Day, and during the Christmas season.
Robson residents can experience Dr. Ortega’s talent and conducting at this year’s Veterans Day concert on Nov. 11, which will feature two performances at the Robson Ranch clubhouse: 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets will be on sale at the clubhouse on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 to 11 a.m. beginning Oct. 22. Tickets are priced at $15 each, and Robson veterans will be admitted free with a ticket, which can be obtained on the ticket sale days mentioned above.