Diego Andres Montes

Diego Andres Montes Olivar is a distinguished Venezuelan percussionist renowned for his exceptional skills and versatile artistry. With a career that spans over a decade, Diego has made significant contributions to the world of percussion both as a soloist and as an orchestral performer. Diego began his musical journey at an early age, joining the National Children's Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela at just 12 years old. His remarkable talent was further showcased when he performed as a tympanist at the Salzburg Festival under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle. His early achievements set the stage for a career marked by notable collaborations and performances across the globe. In his formative years, Diego was a principal percussionist with the Regional Orchestra of the Llanos and participated in prestigious festivals such as the EPSIVAL Brass and Percussion Festival in France and the Campos do Jordão Festival in Brazil. His versatility and proficiency were honed through studies with eminent teachers. Diego's commitment to musical excellence continued as he performed with the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela, under the direction of Gustavo Dudamel, and toured extensively in Spain, Italy, Russia, Germany, Austria and Colombia. His musical prowess was further acknowledged when he was invited by Gustavo Dudamel and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra to participate in the Castell Peralada Festival as a Principal Percussionist in 2019. A skilled performer, Diego has showcased his talent as a soloist with the Schwob Wind Ensemble and earned 2nd place in the prestigious Snare Drum competition at PASIC 2024. His passion for music extends beyond performance, as he serves as a producer and composer for the Venezuelan Virtual Chamber Orchestra, a project that features renowned international artists, demonstrating his global reach and commitment to the art form. Diego is Summa Cum Laude in Music Performance at the Schwob School of Music, and he is pursuing an Artist Diploma in Music Performance with certifications in Musicology and a minor in Composition. As the principal percussionist for the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, he plays a key role in the ensemble, while also teaching percussion at YOGC.