Date
14/11/2025

André Castro, a student on the Master’s Degree in Music Teaching at the School of Applied Arts (ESART) of the Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco (IPCB), won the competition for principal timpanist of the Welsh National Opera Orchestra on 11 November.

‘André will soon begin his trial period at this prestigious institution’ in Cardiff, ‘taking with him the name of ESART and IPCB beyond borders, and with it, the echo of the work, passion and excellence that we cultivate at our school,’ reiterates teacher Bruno Costa.

‘This achievement is a source of enormous pride for the entire percussion class,’ as well as ‘for the teachers who inspire and accompany their students daily with rigour, sensitivity and dedication,’ he adds, also referring to his colleagues Agostinho Sequeira and André Dias. “André’s success is more than an individual achievement. It reflects a community that believes in the transformative power of art, discipline and passion.”

Formed in 1970, one of the best and most renowned orchestras in the United Kingdom stands out not only for its vast operatic repertoire, but also for its concert work and recording portfolio.