The Symphony Orchestra performs a concert in the Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU.
Congratulations to the TCU Symphony Orchestra, directed by Dr. Germán Gutiérrez, for earning first place in The American Prize in Orchestra Performance in the college/university division. This prestigious award recognizes the finest orchestral performances in America.
Dr. Germán Gutiérrez
This diverse ensemble, comprising students from over 10 countries, excels in providing high-quality orchestral training through rigorous auditions and continuous player rotation.
“This prestigious award recognizes the hard work and dedication of our students in performing challenging repertoire, displaying their artistry and enthusiasm,” said Gutiérrez. “I am so proud of my students.”
Each year, the orchestra presents six to eight captivating concerts in the state-of-the-art Van Cliburn Concert Hall, one of the premier acoustic venues in North Texas. The TCU Symphony has also embarked on six international tours, showcasing its talent in Mexico, Puerto Rico, Italy and Argentina. Students have performed alongside renowned soloists such as Lynn Harrell, Olga Kern, Ralph Kirshbaum and Pacho Flores, among others.
Additionally, graduate student Mitchell Manlapig ’25, who serves as assistant conductor and manager of the TCU Symphony Orchestra, received an honorable mention in conducting.
Mitchell Manlapig ’25
Beyond his work at TCU, Manlapig serves as the assistant conductor of the Fort Worth Youth Orchestra and the Fort Worth Medical Orchestra. He also holds a conducting fellowship with the assistant conductor of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra.
“For me, it’s recognition of the dedication and countless hours I have put into my studies,” explained Manlapig. “This honor is also a testament to the instruction here at TCU and from Dr. Gutiérrez, with whom this award would not be possible. Our students also deserve thanks, as their diligence continues to bolster the growing success of the orchestra program.”
“We here at TCU are well aware of how outstanding our orchestral program is, as we are fortunate to witness the ensemble’s incredible musical prowess firsthand,” said Marc Reed, Director of the School of Music. “Our tremendous students are led by the incomparable Dr. Germán Gutiérrez, an amazing musician, conductor and mentor. We are thrilled to see the TCU Symphony Orchestra recognized for its achievement and look forward to this flagship ensemble’s continued growth and excellence.”