ABOUT
Dr. Ruben Balboa is a violist, conductor, and educator whose work blends expressive performance, thoughtful teaching, and a commitment to service in the musical community. At Wichita State University he serves as Assistant Professor of Viola and String Music Education and performs as a member of the Fairmount String Trio. His artistry and mentorship have been recognized nationally by the American Viola Society, which named him an Emerging Artist in 2021 and an Emerging Teacher in 2022. In 2025 he was selected as a national finalist for The American Prize in Orchestral Conducting in the college and university division.
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Balboa’s performing life is rooted in curiosity and collaboration. His recent projects range from the premiere of Alex Molina Shawver’s Tejano Suite at the American Viola Society Festival to performances of Piazzolla’s Le Grand Tango with the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra and collaborative recitals with musicians such as Sandy Yamamoto, Anton Nel, Invoke, and members of the Miró Quartet. He has appeared in chamber settings across the country with Austin Camerata, the Austin Chamber Music Festival, Candlelight Concerts, and the Beerthoven Concert Series. Earlier in his career, his ensemble received the Grand Prize and First Prize at the Coltman Chamber Music Competition. His work also extends into crossover collaborations with artists including Lindsey Stirling, Evanescence, Josh Groban, and Sarah Brightman. In 2026 he will present a program for viola, voice, and piano at the International Viola Congress in Paris.
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Teaching is central to Balboa’s identity as a musician. His university appointments have included The University of Texas at Austin, Illinois State University, and Southwestern University. His years at UT Austin were especially formative, serving as Lecturer of Viola and Assistant Director of the UT String Project, where he oversaw curriculum, guided developing teachers, and supported musicians at every stage of their training.
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Beyond the university, Balboa has connected with young musicians in community programs and festivals such as the Illinois State String Project, Austin Chamber Music Center, Austin Youth Orchestra, Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras, Longhorn String Camp, and Music On Site, Inc. Many of the students he has mentored have gone on to graduate study, leadership roles in youth orchestras, All State ensembles, and teaching careers of their own.
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He is also active as a clinician, guest artist, and adjudicator, with presentations at the American String Teachers Association Conference, the International Viola Congress, and the National String Project Consortium. He has served on juries for the Primrose International Viola Competition, the Coltman Chamber Music Competition, and the American Viola Society Youth Competition and currently serves on the Board of the American Viola Society.
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Balboa continues to broaden the expressive possibilities of the viola through ongoing collaborations, commissions, and performances that reflect his commitment to creativity and community in music.