Hometown:
San José, Costa Rica
Education:
Eastman School of Music Bachelor of Music 2024
Rice University Master of Music 2026 (expected)
Bio:
Rebecca Villalta began violin lessons at 8 years old in Costa Rica. She attended the Eastman School of Music with Renée Jolles, graduating in 2024. Villalta is a substitute with the New World Symphony, has attended the New York String Orchestra Seminar, and was a fellow at the Aspen Music Festival for two summers. Rebecca is currently pursuing her master’s degree studying at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University with Kathleen Winkler.
What inspired you to become a musician?
Ever since I was a kid, classical music and opera have been a big thing in my family. Watching concert videos with my parents and being introduced to it at such a young age made me very sure that I wanted to choose this path, even though no one in my family is a musician!
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
Gustav Mahler. To me, no composer achieves what he does. Mahler says everything that needs to be said through his music. My all-time favorite piece is Mahler’s Symphony no. 3, which I had the privilege of playing at the Aspen Music Festival.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
An interesting fact about me is that I love Latin music (Salsa, reggaeton, etc.)!!
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love reading, traveling, and have recently started taking ballet lessons.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose NRO because I was looking for a program where I would be constantly playing standard orchestral repertoire at the highest level. I also am excited to meet people of different backgrounds and lifelong friends! I am looking to become an orchestral leader and there is no better place to do it than at a festival of this caliber.