Drum, Guitar, Piano
Luis Vargas is an accomplished music educator and percussionist, distinguished as the principal percussionist and timpanist of both the Florida International University Symphonic Orchestra and FIU Wind Ensemble from 2017 to 2023. With a wealth of performance experience, Luis Vargas has contributed his talents as a guest timpanist and percussionist to numerous esteemed ensembles including the Greater Miami Symphonic Band, Kendall Orchestra, St. Phillips Episcopal Church Choir, Seminole Theatre Pit Players, and Area Stage Theatre Company since 2018.
Throughout his career, Vargas has showcased his musical prowess with notable groups such as the Alhambra Orchestra, Miami Music Festival Opera Academy, Miami Music Festival, Les Art Nouveau Chalameaux Clarinet Choir, National Intercollegiate Band, Florida Music Educators Association Conference Intercollegiate Band, 7/4 Ensemble, Fresno Orchestral Opera Summer Academy, and McCormick Marimba Festival.
As a dedicated clinician, Vargas has imparted his expertise at various educational institutions, spanning from elementary to collegiate levels. He has served as Director at Miami Coral Park Senior High School, Doral Academy Preparatory School, and Front Ensemble Instructor at Florida International University. Additionally, Vargas has contributed his pedagogical insights as a faculty member at Miami Music Project.
A native of Miami, Florida, Vargas commenced his musical journey by mastering percussion in his middle school band. He graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree in Music Performance from Florida International University under the tutelage of Dr. Karlyn Vina. He continued his academic pursuit with a Master's degree in Music Performance, studying under Dr. Colin Williams.
Currently, Vargas is refining his craft under the mentorship of Matthew Howard, Principal Percussionist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. He has also benefitted from the guidance of esteemed percussionists including Matthew Strauss, Principal Percussionist of the Houston Symphony, and Josh Jones, former principal percussionist of the National City Symphony. Additionally, he has received instruction from renowned percussionist John Tafoya, former timpanist of the National Symphony Orchestra.
Luis Vargas epitomizes excellence in music education and performance, enriching the musical landscape of the DC area with his artistry and dedication.