AJ Gongora

Edwin A.J. Gongora (better known as “AJ”) is a Belizean violinist who has been actively involved in developing music education in Belize. He seeks to let students and families experience the power of the Suzuki teaching method while at the same time making classical music more accessible to a younger audience.

AJ began taking Suzuki-method violin classes at the Pallotti School of Music where he eventually became exposed and fond of orchestra music with the Belize Chamber Orchestra. Since then, he completed a degree in music at the St. John’s Junior College music program where he placed first on his graduating class on the Dean’s List. Recently, he has completed Suzuki Teacher Training under Mr. James Hutchins.

Formerly a teacher of the Pallotti School of Music and the Belize National Youth Orchestra, he currently manages his own private music school in Belize City, Belize as the director of AJ Gongora Music Academy where he teaches the violin, viola, cello, and music theory. Additionally, he currently is an assistant director for the Belize Suzuki Summer Institute where he assists in planning an annual international music camp in Belize for local Belizeans and international students.

With his energetic, heartful and fun personality, he joyfully engages with his students with heart and motivation. He hopes that his enthusiasm and dedication inspire them to embrace the triumph of learning to play a musical instrument with the hopes that they may appreciate the art of music and camaraderie.