Brazilian conductor Tobias Volkmann has established a prominent career in classical music due to his versatility and his work with various orchestras in Brazil and abroad. In 2024, he was appointed chief conductor and artistic director of the University of São Paulo Symphony Orchestra (Osusp). Volkmann also serves as the artistic director of the Symphony Orchestra of the National University of Cuyo in Mendoza, Argentina, and is the founder of the Rio Villarmônica Orchestra in Rio de Janeiro. His career includes notable appointments, such as Principal Conductor of the Theatro Municipal of Rio de Janeiro from 2016 to 2018, where he also served as assistant conductor. He was also the Principal Guest Conductor of the National Symphony Orchestra of the UFF. Throughout his career, he has conducted more than 30 orchestras in Europe, the United States, and South America. Volkmann is known for his dedication to contemporary music, having premiered over twenty works in several countries. He also shows a strong social commitment through his participation in Ação Social Pela Música do Brasil, an NGO that provides music education to underprivileged youths. His academic background includes studies at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and Carnegie Mellon University, as well as masterclasses with renowned conductors such as Jorma Panula, Kurt Masur, and Isaac Karabtchevsky. With an unconventional life story, Volkmann previously worked as a bricklayer in Germany and a model in Brazil during the early stages of his career, before establishing himself as one of the country's leading conductors.

Brian Messier is a conductor, educator, and arts entrepreneur recognized for his work with wind orchestras. He serves as the Director of Bands and Senior Liaison for Hopkins Center Ensembles at Dartmouth College. Career highlights: Mexican Repertoire Initiative: At Dartmouth College, he leads this project to promote the music of Mexican composers on an international stage. It includes commissions, cultural exchanges, tours, and annual symposia. The Valley Winds: He is the founder and Artistic Director of this professional wind ensemble based in Massachusetts, which won The American Prize in 2016 and 2023. Awards: He received The American Prize in Conducting (Community Division) in 2023 for his work with The Valley Winds. Education: Messier holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Conducting from the University of Minnesota, a Master's degree from the University of Massachusetts, and a Bachelor's degree from Ithaca College. Professional experience: Before joining Dartmouth, he served as Director of Bands at Williams College and Belchertown High School.