Mauricio Lopez-Chollett

BM: Cleveland Institute of Music
MM: University of Michigan

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Mauricio Lopez graduated with honors from the Cleveland Institute of Music in 1997 under the tutelage of Richard Aaron. He then pursued his Master’s degree in Music at the University of Michigan, studying with Anthony Elliott.

During his formative years, Lopez honed his skills as a chamber musician, receiving mentorship from members of esteemed quartets such as the Miami String Quartet, the Cleveland String Quartet, the Prazak Quartet, and the Borodin Quartet. He also participated in prestigious music festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival in '94 and '98, and the National Repertory Orchestra in '96 and '97.

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In 1999, Lopez returned to Venezuela, where he dedicated himself to teaching cello at the Emil Friedman School for 23 years. Additionally, he served as principal cellist with the Virtuosi de Caracas chamber orchestra, specializing in baroque repertoire. Following his tenure in Venezuela, Lopez now teaches in the Los Angeles area and Pasadena, continuing to share his passion for music education and performing as a chamber musician.