Diego Andrés Montes Olivar is a distinguished Venezuelan percussionist renowned for his exceptional skills and versatile artistry. With a career spanning over a decade, Diego has made significant contributions to the world of percussion both as a soloist and as an orchestral performer. He began his musical journey at an early age, joining the National Children's Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela at just 12 years old.

His remarkable talent was further showcased when he performed as a tympanist at the Salzburg Festival under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle, laying the foundation for a career marked by notable collaborations and performances worldwide. In his formative years, Diego served as principal percussionist with the Regional Orchestra of the Llanos and participated in prestigious festivals such as the EPSIVAL Brass and Percussion Festival in France and the Campos do Jordão Festival in Brazil. His versatility and proficiency were honed through studies with eminent teachers.

Diego’s commitment to musical excellence continued as he performed with the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela under the direction of Gustavo Dudamel, touring extensively in Spain, Russia, Germany, and Austria. In 2019, he was invited by Gustavo Dudamel and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra to participate as Principal Percussionist at the Castell Peralada Festival. A dynamic soloist, Diego has recently premiered the Kraft Timpani Concerto and performed its orchestral percussion ensemble version, earning acclaim for his precision, musicality, and interpretive depth. He also performed as a featured soloist in Renewal by Viet Cuong at the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA), further cementing his reputation as a versatile and compelling performer.

Diego has showcased his talents as soloist with the Schwob Wind Ensemble and earned 2nd place in the Snare Drum Competition at PASIC 2024. Beyond performance, Diego is an innovative producer and composer for the Venezuelan Virtual Chamber Orchestra, a project featuring renowned international artists that highlights his commitment to expanding the reach of classical music. He graduated Summa Cum Laude in Music Performance from the Schwob School of Music and is currently pursuing an Artist Diploma in Music Performance with certifications in Musicology and a minor in Composition. As principal percussionist of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, Diego plays a pivotal role in the ensemble while also teaching percussion at YOGC, sharing his passion and expertise with the next generation of musicians.