As Music Director and Conductor of Boulder Opera Company's upcoming Mozart vs. Salieri concert, José Arturo González is helping bring one of classical music's most famous rivalries to life. We sat down with him to discuss Mozart, Salieri, opera, and what audiences can expect this summer.
1. Tell us a little about your musical journey. What first inspired you to become a conductor?
I've always been fascinated by how music brings people together. Conducting allows me to shape not only the sound, but the shared experience between musicians and audience. What first inspired me was the opportunity to tell stories through music and to help bring a composer's vision to life in a way that feels immediate and deeply human.
2. What do you love most about conducting opera compared to symphonic repertoire?
Opera combines so many art forms—music, drama, poetry, and visual storytelling. As a conductor, you're not only working with the orchestra but also supporting singers as they bring characters to life. Every performance feels like a living conversation between the pit and the stage, and that collaborative energy is incredibly rewarding.
3. When you first heard the theme Mozart vs. Salieri, what excited you about the project?
I loved the opportunity to go beyond the familiar legend and let audiences hear the music for themselves. Mozart's brilliance is undeniable, but Salieri was also an accomplished composer whose music deserves to be rediscovered. Presenting them side by side invites listeners to form their own opinions rather than relying on a centuries-old narrative.
4. Most people know the rivalry through the film Amadeus. How much of that story is fact, and how much is myth?
Amadeus is a remarkable work of fiction, but it's important to remember that it's exactly that—a dramatic interpretation. While Mozart and Salieri were professional contemporaries who likely competed for opportunities, there is little historical evidence of the intense personal rivalry portrayed in the film. In reality, their relationship appears to have been far more complex and, at times, even respectful.
5. If you could describe Mozart's musical personality in three words, what would they be?
Brilliant. Playful. Profound.
6. If you could describe Salieri's musical personality in three words, what would they be?
Elegant. Dramatic. Refined.
8. What are some musical qualities in Salieri's works that modern audiences may be surprised to discover?
I think many listeners will be surprised by how expressive, theatrical, and emotionally engaging Salieri's music is. He had a remarkable gift for melody and dramatic pacing, and his orchestration is both colorful and sophisticated. His music reminds us why he was so highly respected during his lifetime.
10. What is your favorite Mozart opera, and why?
The Marriage of Figaro is hard to beat. It's witty, emotionally rich, and filled with extraordinary ensembles where every character has a distinct voice. Mozart captures the full spectrum of human nature with incredible warmth, humor, and compassion.
11. If someone has never attended an opera concert before, what Mozart piece would you play to make them fall in love with opera?
I would choose the Overture to The Marriage of Figaro. It bursts with energy, charm, and excitement from the very first note. Even without knowing the story, audiences immediately feel the joy and momentum that make Mozart's music so irresistible.
15. Why do you think this concert will be particularly fun for audiences?
I think audiences will enjoy hearing two remarkable composers presented side by side in a fresh and engaging way. There are moments of humor, drama, breathtaking virtuosity, and genuine emotion, making this a concert that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It's a wonderful reminder that history is often more nuanced than the stories we tell about it.
17. What are some upcoming projects and artistic goals you're most excited about in the next few years?
I'm always excited to explore repertoire that connects audiences with both familiar masterpieces and overlooked gems. Looking ahead, I hope to continue collaborating with outstanding artists, champion meaningful storytelling through opera, and create performances that welcome new audiences while deepening the experience for longtime opera lovers.
18. What do you hope audiences take away from this concert after hearing both composers side by side?
I hope audiences leave with a renewed appreciation for both composers. Mozart's genius speaks for itself, but Salieri's music deserves to be heard on its own merits. If listeners leave curious to explore more of Salieri's work—and with a deeper understanding of the richness of this musical era—then we've accomplished something meaningful.
19. What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you outside of music?
Outside of music, I'm endlessly curious. I enjoy exploring history, literature, and the stories behind the works I conduct because understanding the broader cultural context always enriches the music itself.
20. Finally, in one sentence: Why shouldn't anyone miss Mozart vs. Salieri?
This concert is a rare opportunity to experience two extraordinary composers in conversation with one another through an unforgettable afternoon of beautiful music, compelling drama, and surprising discoveries.
Performance Details
Sunday, August 23, 2026
3:00 PM
Boulder Seventh-day Adventist Church
345 Mapleton Ave., Boulder, CO 80304
Tickets
General Admission: $35
Seniors & Students: $25
Reserve your seats today and discover why this timeless musical rivalry continues to captivate audiences centuries later.
We look forward to welcoming you for an afternoon of unforgettable music with Boulder Opera Company!