Ramón Godines first all level music graduate
from TAMIU's fine arts program

By Paul de la Peña-Franceschi

Ramón Godines has received the first all level music degree in guitar performance from Texas A&M International University. He is the first to graduate from the university's new fine and performing arts program.
As a part of the requirements for graduation, Godines gave a recital on his primary instrument, the guitar. Also a vocalist who plays piano, he performed works from each musical genre at with various levels of difficulty. The senior recital was performed recently at TAMIU's new Student Center Auditorium.
Godines performed works on classical guitar including two pieces from Mateo Carcassi, Opus 14, No. 7, and No. 14. He also performed Bouree in E minor, and J. S. Bach's Prelude No.1. The program closed with Valse Venezolano No.4 by Antonio Lauro.
Godines, 28, began his education at Laredo Community College and was encouraged by professor and mentor Dr. Gilberto Soto to continue at TAMIU. He has been teaching guitar and basic musicianship for many years, and is currently a music instructor. A vocalist in several local bands for many years, he currently sings with his wife in the popular group Little Sister.
Godines, the first performing arts graduate in TAMIU's 30-year history, said he is glad his hometown university offered undergraduate degrees in music and musical performance in South Texas.
"I think it's really great for people who don't want to go out of town. It's a nice opportunity for Laredoans, plus, there is a great need for music educators in town," he said. "It's a great way to keep music instructors in Laredo."
Godines hopes to get a full-time job at a Laredo school and will begin the arduous task of passing his tests for teacher certification.
For more information about the music programs at TAMIU, call Dr. Soto in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts at 326-2649 or email gsoto@tamiu.edu.