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Georgia’s LaGrange Symphony Orchestra (LSO) has announced the appointment of Venezuelan-born violinist Samuel Vargas as its new concertmaster. For the past two decades, the role has been filled by guest concertmasters since the retirement of violinist Lorna Wood.
Vargas began learning the violin through El Sistema and has since graduated from Columbus State University’s Schwob School of Music, where he studied with Sergiu Schwartz. His accolades include winning the Yamaha Young Performing Artist Award in 2019, the senior division of the Sphinx Competition in 2021, the José Antonio Abreu International Award for the Arts in 2022, as well as the Visionary Impact Award for entrepreneurship and the Debussy International Music Competition’s Teacher Award in 2024. He currently teaches at the Schwob School of Music.
Vargas has performed with orchestras including the Simón Bolívar Orchestra, The New World Symphony, the Venezuela National Philharmonic, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, with renowned conductors such as Daniel Barenboim, Gustavo Dudamel, Simon Rattle, and Claudio Abbado.
In April 2026, Vargas will perform as a soloist with the LSO for the season finale, premiering Concerto for Violin and Orchestra ’Morgante’ by Andrés Martín in tribute to conductor Michael Morgan.
‘I have found Samuel to be the quintessential artist and musician. His continued rise as a highly sought after soloist on the international stage, endless passion for teaching, and his dedication in championing new works serve as an inspiration to those around him,’ said LSO Music director and conductor Richard Prior. ‘He will bring a vast amount to not just the LSO but also our musical community in LaGrange and beyond.’
Vargas likewise expressed his excitement in taking on the position:
‘It is with deep joy and gratitude that I step into the role of concertmaster of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra. This orchestra, rooted in excellence and carried by the unwavering support of an extraordinary audience and community of patrons stands as a beacon of culture and connection in our region. I am inspired by its legacy and energised by the opportunity to contribute through music, education, and entrepreneurial vision.
‘I also look forward to nurturing meaningful relationships with the younger generation of musicians, empowering their growth and inviting them into the transformative world of orchestral music. Together, we will expand the Symphony’s reach, deepen its community ties, and continue to uplift hearts through the power of music.’
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