Luis Viquez, the director of orchestral studies at the University of Rhode Island (URI), has been elected as the president of the College Orchestra Directors Association (CODA). CODA is a leading professional organization that supports college and university orchestra directors and their students. With around 400 members in the U.S. and abroad, CODA plays a vital role in advancing orchestral programs and conducting education. Viquez, who has been a member of CODA for nearly a decade, plans to organize the 2026 national conference at URI’s Kingston Campus. The event will showcase the newly renovated Fine Arts Center and feature performances by select orchestras, including URI’s Symphony Orchestra. Viquez aims to elevate URI’s music program and promote diversity in orchestral repertoire.

Viquez joined URI in fall 2023 after serving as the director of orchestral activities at the University of South Dakota for seven years. His leadership brought significant recognition to the orchestral program, earning it national and international acclaim. Now, as the president of CODA, Viquez envisions an opportunity to serve his colleagues and contribute to the field of orchestral music. He emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship within the organization, which he credits for much of his professional growth. “This position allows me to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my career,” Viquez remarked.

The 2026 national conference at URI promises to be a landmark event. Scheduled from February 25 to March 1, 2026, it will attract approximately 150 educators and students to the Kingston Campus. One of the highlights will be the opening concert performed by URI’s Symphony Orchestra, collaborating with the URI Concert Choir. The new Fine Arts Center, recently refurbished with a $90 million investment, will provide an impressive venue for this artistic showcase. Viquez is particularly excited about the prospect of welcoming attendees from across the globe to Rhode Island. “It’s a chance to highlight our R1 institution and its commitment to excellence in music,” he noted.

Viquez’s vision extends beyond hosting conferences. In less than two years at URI, he has observed a growing interest in joining the orchestra, along with improvements in musicians’ technical abilities. He has also prioritized performing works by underrepresented composers, ensuring a diverse representation in the orchestral canon. “We strive to introduce our students to a broader range of musical voices, both historical and contemporary,” Viquez explained. To further this goal, he has initiated recording sessions with the symphony, aiming to release an album featuring compositions by underrepresented artists. This initiative underscores his commitment to fostering inclusivity in music education.

The election of Luis Viquez as CODA president marks a significant milestone for URI’s music department. It reflects the university’s dedication to advancing orchestral studies and promoting diversity in classical music. By hosting the 2026 national conference and showcasing the renovated Fine Arts Center, URI aims to establish itself as a leading institution in New England for orchestral performance and education. Viquez’s leadership promises to bring new opportunities and recognition to URI’s music program, enriching the experiences of both students and faculty alike.