I am a conductor, guitarist, classical guitarist, arranger, composer, and music educator with over 20 years of experience in group music education, focusing on plucked string instruments and ensemble formation. I specialize in working with children and teenagers from socially vulnerable communities through collective music practices, developing educational methods, arranging for guitar orchestras, and leading impactful music projects.

JOEL SOUZA

I am a conductor, guitarist, classical guitarist, arranger, composer, and music educator with over 20 years of experience in group music education, focusing on plucked string instruments and ensemble formation. I specialize in working with children and teenagers from socially vulnerable communities through collective music practices, developing educational methods, arranging for guitar orchestras, and leading impactful music projects.

Available to hire

I am a conductor, guitarist, classical guitarist, arranger, composer, and music educator with over 20 years of experience in group music education, focusing on plucked string instruments and ensemble formation.

I specialize in working with children and teenagers from socially vulnerable communities through collective music practices, developing educational methods, arranging for guitar orchestras, and leading impactful music projects.

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Language

English
Advanced
Portuguese
Fluent
Spanish; Castilian
Beginner

Work Experience

Artistic Director & Conductor at Fundação Espírita Nova Vida (FENOVA)
January 1, 2017 - November 8, 2025
Leads the Plucked String Orchestra and Nova Vida Choir; arranges and conducts rehearsals and performances with children and teens in vulnerable situations; oversees music education methodology and social impact strategies.
Guitar and Electric Guitar Instructor at CEMEPAC - Municipal Center for Arts and Culture
January 1, 2017 - November 8, 2025
Music educator for all ages; actively participates in civic, cultural, and folklore events.
Guitarist, Arranger & Producer at Quarteto de Violões Goyazes
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2021
Co-founded the quartet; produced concerts and arrangements for multiple performances.
Music Coordinator & Conductor at OSJOFF (Obras Sociais Jorge Faim Filho)
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2017
Directed the 'Mãos que Tocam' project for children and youth.
Volunteer Guitarist at Igreja de Deus no Brasil (Church of God)
January 1, 2023 - January 1, 2023
Contributed to worship services and community events for over 25 years.

Education

Master of Ethnomusicology (in progress) at University of Florida
January 11, 2030 - November 8, 2025
Master of Music at Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU)
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2020
Bachelor of Music in Classical Guitar at Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU)
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2007
Master of Ethnomusicology at University of Florida
January 11, 2030 - November 8, 2025
Master of Music at Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU)
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2020
Bachelor of Music in Classical Guitar at Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU)
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2007

Qualifications

38th Curitiba Music Workshop
January 1, 2021 - November 8, 2025
42nd International Summer Course in Brasília
January 1, 2021 - November 8, 2025
Orquestrando SP: Development Practices for Music Groups
January 1, 2021 - November 8, 2025
Orquestrando SP: Conducting Techniques
January 1, 2019 - November 8, 2025
Continuing Education Program – Faculdade Sul Mineira
January 1, 2017 - November 8, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Government
    uniE608 Music isn’t just sound
    🎸 Feeling every note. Music isn’t just sound — it’s emotion, connection, and truth.