If you are a student in the music program at Radford University, chances are you know Octávio Deluchi. An international guitarist from Prados, Brazil, Octávio spent the entirety of his time as a graduate student here at Radford University. During his time as an undergraduate at the Federal University of São João del-Rei, Octávio was given the opportunity to attend a variety of master classes where he would listen to guest artists from countries all around the world. One of these guest speakers was Radford’s very own Dr. Trent. When Octávio later completed his undergraduate degree program, he reached out to Dr. Trent and made the transition to Radford.

When asked about his time back home, Octávio explained that guitar was not his first instrument. Around the ages of 11 and 12, he began learning how to play the saxophone. He did not seem to connect with the instrument and did not like it very much, so he quit roughly one year into learning. Then his brother gave him a guitar. Octávio fell in love with the instrument and has continued practicing and learning more about it ever since.

When asked about the culture of Prados, Octávio explained it as a musical one. Even the institution he attended for music dates back to the 1830’s. São João del-Rei, the city Octávio was born in, has one of the oldest orchestras in all of America, and is still active today. According to Octávio, “São João del-Rei is possibly one of the only places in the world where on the same tiny, small street, you have a huge baroque church with big bells ringing for a religious procession, a contemporary solo saxophone concert, a funeral, street bars and a rock show, at the same time in front of each other”.

Music is a powerful concept. When asked about any advice he might have for other musicians, Octávio talked about the importance of having a good ear, travelling, going to musical events like concerts, and taking care of the art that you produce and consume. He discussed how music is a unique experience to humans and that people should not rush through things, but experience them to their full extent and appreciate the aesthetic it brings.

Octávio Deluchi is an astounding musician that has impacted the lives of many, especially here at Radford. Career wise, he wishes to become a college professor either in the States, or Brazil. He does not care about the financial aspects of his job, but instead wishes to focus on finding a long-term project in which he is happy with in terms of quality, accuracy, relevance, care, and influence. One of his biggest goals in life is to inspire others as much as his mentors and role models have inspired him.

To learn more about what Octávio has been up to, check out his website at octaviodeluchi.com