We had the good fortune of connecting with Francisco Vila and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Francisco, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“If you have a problem, solve it.” Throughout the years I’ve heard this in different ways from people I came to respect and admire. I believe it means to keep pushing forward, that there is virtually no obstacle which is impossible to overcome. It means that one should stand firm in the face of adversity and welcome the opportunity to grow and find meaning in the journey.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
A life in music brings with it a plethora of experiences that enlarge one’s scope of life, because through those experiences art and life become so intertwined that it’s impossible to separate them. Music is not a profession, or a simple passion- it is life.

To find one’s place in this life I found that it has to be claimed with as much determination as can be mustered. Just because a person is talented, talent alone is not enough to carry one through.

The projects or concerts I’m most proud of are those where I felt that musical message the great composers left in writing were transmitted to the public, and that I was only there to interpret. I am also proud of the festival I founded eight years ago in my home country of Ecuador, which has by now awarded over 250 scholarships to talented young artists. In this yearly gathering, they have the opportunity to meet their musical heroes in person and to work one-on-one with them.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
On top of the list is the Getty Museum, a meal at El Cochinito in Silver Lake. Dinner and some drinks at The Henry on Robertson.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Besides my mother, who made the greatest sacrifice in moving from our home country to the US, where I discovered my love for music, I credit the legendary cellist Janos Starker, my most important mentor who’s impact was life-changing. He was an excellent role model of a human being and gave me the musical tools that in turn gave me the freedom to express myself.

Instagram: @franciscovilahaas

Youtube: https://youtu.be/J-wRelAwKNQ?si=R6HtMGnZ4B9X8bUS

Image Credits
Second photo by: Stefanie Muller

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