ISA Announces New Executive Director

The International Suzuki Association (ISA) announces that Dr. Rafael Videira will be its new Executive Director. With over a decade of experience in Suzuki pedagogy and nonprofit leadership, Rafael has been a dedicated teacher, leader, and administrator throughout the USA, Mexico, Brazil, and Germany. Videira will serve as Executive Director-Elect through Spring, then succeeding current CEO Allen Lieb. The Board thanks Mr. Lieb for his dedication, commitment, and service to the ISA.

“Rafael's diplomatic and organizational skills will be a great asset to the ISA,” says Martin Rüttimann, ISA Board Chair. “He possesses a clear vision for managing the organization from an administrative standpoint, effectively integrating cultural differences from various regions to unify and strengthen the organization under a common umbrella."

Rafael has shared, “It is an honor to serve as Executive Director of the International Suzuki Association. Having grown up in Brazil and built my career in the United States, I first encountered Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy after coming here to pursue my graduate studies. Since then, I’ve seen and understood how his vision really transcends culture and geography, connecting people through music, respect, and shared learning. Through my career, I’ve witnessed how the Suzuki approach nurtures not only skilled musicians but compassionate human beings. I look forward to working with our global community to strengthen that vision and support teachers, students, and families around the world.”

Currently based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Dr. Videira has taught students of all levels in violin and viola, from beginners to advanced players. Some of his students have achieved significant success, winning competitions and gaining admission to institutions such as The Manhattan School of Music, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Jacobs School of Music, and the Hartt School.

In 2018, Dr. Videira received the Suzuki Association of the Americas Certificate of Achievement, recognizing his dedication to teaching excellence within the Suzuki philosophy. Dr. Videira holds a Doctoral degree in Viola Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Oregon and a Masters degree in Performance from the University of New Mexico. He has received training in the Suzuki Method™ and other pedagogical concepts from various experts in the field, such as Susan Kempter, Dr. Susan Baer, Dr. Robert Duke, Teri Einfeldt, Christie Felsing, Dr. Robert Gillespie, John Kendall, Lynn McCall, William Preucil, Sr., and Elizabeth Stuen-Walker.