Joshua Barlage
Music Director, Fort Dodge Area Symphony
Joshua Barlage is a passionate conductor and educator who believes that orchestras themselves are the greatest instrument of all. A proud graduate of Capital University’s Conservatory of Music in Columbus, Ohio, Joshua began his career as an assistant conductor with Opera Columbus and the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra. He now serves as Music Director of the Fort Dodge Area Symphony.
Joshua’s journey into music began with the French horn, but it was conducting that captured his heart. He thrives on the thrill of standing before an orchestra, feeling the immense energy radiating from the musicians, and serving as both a communicator and interpreter of the composer’s vision.
His first rehearsal with the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra ignited a lasting passion for working with young musicians. Joshua is inspired by their uninhibited enthusiasm and the unique, rewarding environment they bring to every rehearsal.
For the Youth Symphony, Joshua envisions building a true musical community—one where students feel a deep sense of ownership and pride in the ensemble, and where their voices help shape the artistic direction. Through this collaborative spirit, he aims to create unforgettable performances and a shared love of music that will last a lifetime.
Dr. Héctor Agüero
Director of Orchestral Studies at Drake University
Artistic Director & Conductor, Laredo Philharmonic
Dr. Héctor Agüero is an accomplished conductor and multi-instrumentalist, performing on saxophone, flute, and clarinet. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting from Texas Tech University, as well as a Doctor of Musical Arts in Orchestral Conducting from the University of Houston.
Currently serving as Director of Orchestral Studies at Drake University and Artistic Director & Conductor of the Laredo Philharmonic in Texas, Dr. Agüero brings a wealth of experience to the podium. His previous appointments include Director of Orchestras and Chamber Music at The High School for the Performing & Visual Arts in Houston, Sinfonia Conductor for the Houston Youth Symphony, Associate Conductor of the Salem Youth Symphony in Oregon, and Music Director for both the Fort Bend Symphony and the Willamette Valley Symphony.
From his earliest days as a middle school saxophonist to leading ensembles as a high school drum major, Dr. Agüero discovered a lifelong passion for conducting. What excites him most is transforming notes on a page into something powerful, emotional, and unforgettable—an artistic collaboration that brings musicians and audiences together in a shared experience.
A dedicated educator, Dr. Agüero has a deep commitment to working with young musicians, inspired by their boundless energy, willingness to take on challenges, and ability to deliver performances that move both themselves and their listeners. His vision for the Youth Symphony is to create a space where students from across Central Iowa are educated, inspired, and empowered. Through masterworks, new commissions, festivals, and collaborative performances such as the annual side-by-side with the Des Moines Symphony, he strives to help students create lasting musical memories and build a legacy of excellence.
