Dr. Patricia Caicedo describes her life’s work as “devoted to fostering diversity and inclusion in music and to preserving and promoting underrepresented repertoires.” On September 28, the lauded soprano, musicologist, and doctor of medicine will embark on an ambitious five-day residency at the Eastman School of Music and the University of Rochester Medical Center, where she will give masterclasses and present on a variety of topics, including the impact that music has on individual and societal health. We recently spoke to Dr. Caicedo about her upcoming residency:
We are very much looking forward to your residency at Eastman and the University of Rochester! What are you hoping participants gain from attending your presentations?
In addition to igniting curiosity about Latin American and Spanish music, I aim to help students understand that music is a powerful tool for unraveling history and society. Music is a gateway to a deeper understanding of the world, and I want to inspire them to explore different musical traditions. I also want them to understand that musicians are highly creative people whose talents and abilities can extend to many areas, so we can contribute in many ways to improve our world and find many ways to fit in it.
We were so intrigued to learn that you have a medical degree on top of everything you’ve accomplished musically. What compelled you to include medicine in your studies?
I began my musical journey at the age of 5, but when the time came to choose a career, my altruistic nature led me to pursue medicine. I entered medical school at just 16, completing my studies by 23. Initially, I thought of music as a mere hobby during this time.
However, music gradually took on a more significant role in my life, bringing immense happiness. Eventually, I made the bold decision to leave medicine behind and fully embrace music. Now, I understand that these two passions complement each other beautifully. Through music, I not only find personal fulfillment but also a meaningful way to help others and lead a richer life.
Can you share what you’re currently working on or researching?
I have so many projects. I’m preparing for the 20-year celebration of the Barcelona Festival of Song in 2024. This celebration involves commissioning and preparing new works and organizing concerts and classes for the students who come to Barcelona. I’m also working on three new editions of scores: one anthology of art songs for voice and guitar by composer José Lezcano, a book of Peruvian art songs in indigenous languages, and a book of Art Songs in Spanish for beginners.
I’m also preparing a new recording of Brazilian art songs, designing jewelry, and paddle surfing in my spare time, not to mention the many travels around the world that I have scheduled for ‘24-25. I don’t have time to get bored!
Each of the following events are free & open to the public:
Guest Lecture: Thursday, September 28 at 2:30 p.m. | Kilbourn Hall
Topic: Expanding in Concentric Circles: Being a Musician in the Digital Era
Musicology Symposium: Thursday, September 28 at 4:30 p.m. | Sibley Music Library, CR-404
Topic: Deconstructing the center and the peripheries: A proposal for a ‘4E’ performance practice of the Latin American art song
UR Medical Center DEI & Healthcare Equity Symposium: Friday, September 29 at 12:00 p.m. | Class of 1962 Auditorium
Topic: We Are What We Listen To, The Impact of Music on Individual And Social Health
Eastman Performing Arts Medicine Guest Lecture: Saturday, September 30 at 12:00 p.m. | Ciminelli Formal Lounge
Topic: We Are What We Listen To, The Impact of Music on Individual And Social Health
Learn more about Dr. Caicedo by watching this video:
