Sara Araujo Gutierrez

Inspired to play at age seven after hearing her mother practice the organ, Mexican pianist Sara Araujo Gutiérrez has built a career centered on building bridges between a rich musical heritage and the classical canon.

Her performance mission is to champion underrepresented works, particularly from Mexican and female composers, weaving them into programs alongside cornerstones of the classical repertoire. She invites audiences to experience Latin American concert music with fresh ears, showcasing its essential place in the concert hall. This artistic vision is most evident in her chamber music collaborations. Her recent projects include Duo Raíces, a piano-flute duo with Ecuadorian artist Lessly O'Leary. Their concert series in Michigan featured music from their respective home countries, culminating with the U.S. premiere of "La Marágora" by Sara's mentor, composer Marta Garcia Renart. Sara's performances have taken her to prestigious stages such as Mexico City's National Palace and the Morelos Theatre in Aguascalientes.

As a dedicated educator, Sara believes every student deserves an opportunity to achieve their musical best and is committed to provide them the tools to achieve this and foster a life-long love for music. This core belief has guided her through a diverse range of teaching roles, from her work with students with disabilities in the Inclusive Arts Program (PRAI) in Mexico to teaching young beginners at the Suzuki Academy of Kalamazoo and university students in the class piano setting. Her ability to connect with students and collaborators is enhanced by her professional qualifications in English-Spanish translation, and French language.

Sara graduated from the National Conservatory of Music in Mexico and earned her Master’s in Piano Performance from Western Michigan University, studying with Lori Sims. In recognition of her skill as both a performer and teacher, she has been awarded Graduate Assistantships at both Western Michigan University and Baylor University, where she is currently continuing her studies with Dr. Shijun Wang.