Today we’d like to introduce you to Rodrigo Ramos.

Hi Rodrigo, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hello, my name is Rodrigo Ramos, and I am 29 years old, currently residing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the United States.

My journey begins in my childhood, which has greatly influenced my path today. I grew up in a Christian family in a small city called Magé in Rio de Janeiro. My parents always ensured that my siblings and I attended church, where we participated in the children’s choir and later in the youth choir. My mother and older sister, both talented singers, nurtured my love for music.

As a child, I was fascinated by violins and orchestras on TV, but financial constraints made it difficult to pursue lessons. It was only after we moved to a different city that I could start taking violin classes, as they were affordable and nearby. Despite the financial strain, my parents managed to support my lessons, and my dedicated teachers never let me give up. I am deeply grateful to them for their support.

Embracing the violin as my profession, I diligently practiced and eventually pursued a college education in violin performance. Over the years, I have had the privilege of playing in prestigious orchestras and touring with renowned singers. Additionally, I have been committed to teaching music through social projects in Rio, aiming to share my knowledge with those who faced similar challenges in their upbringing.

I hold a degree in Music Education with a specialization in violin performance and have recently completed my Master’s in Violin Performance at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all. The journey has been far from smooth. Growing up in a poor area and struggling to afford basic necessities made it significantly more challenging to pursue my passion. I remember missing rehearsals and important concerts because I couldn’t afford the bus fare. Sometimes, I had to travel over two hours for a 30-minute lesson with esteemed musicians who greatly influenced and inspired me. Balancing the costs of classes and transportation with the need to buy food for the week was a constant struggle. Looking back, those moments were incredibly tough.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a violinist and educator based in Milwaukee, with extensive experience in both performance and music instruction. My musical journey began in 2010 through social projects and mentorship from renowned Brazilian teachers like Ricardo Amado and Mariana Salles. I hold a degree in Music Education from the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO) and have also studied Violin Performance.

As a violinist, I have had the honor of performing on prestigious stages worldwide and collaborating with esteemed artists such as Elina Garanca, Lorenz Nasturica-Herschcowici, and Maria Mena. My dedication to music education is evident in my specialization in the Suzuki Method, my involvement in social projects across Rio de Janeiro, and my past role as a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Recently, I earned my Master’s in Violin Performance under the guidance of Dr. Bernard Zinck from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Currently, I serve as a String Orchestra Coach for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra and as an Orchestra Teacher at the Barack Obama School.

What sets me apart is my commitment to using music as a tool for social change and education, as well as my diverse experiences both on stage and in the classroom. I am most proud of my ability to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Humility and effort. Working hard to achieve your goals while remaining humble enough to understand the challenges and not step over anyone along the way.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rodrygoramoss/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rodrygoramoss/