DANTE CASTRO

FRENCH HORNist

"One bites into the brass mouthpiece of his wooden cudgel, and the other blows his cheeks out on a French horn. Do you call that Art?" — Franz Schubert

EXPLORE PERFORMANCES

BIOgraphy

Dante Castro is an emerging French hornist whose musical identity is defined by curiosity and a relentless pursuit. While his performances are known for tonal range and depth, his path to the stage was unconventional. Unlike those born into musical dynasties, Dante’s artistic side was forged through a personal journey of trial and error. From his early explorations of various instruments to his ultimate realization that the horn was his true calling, he has built a career rooted in community spirit and orchestral excellence. Discover the story of how a high school discovery transformed into a lifelong dedication to the Guelph Youth Symphony Orchestra and beyond.

"My path to music wasn't inherited, as I didn't grow up in a musical household. Instead, my curiosity sparked in high school, leading me to experiment with various instruments, starting with the piano. However, everything shifted the moment I held a French horn. I was instantly drawn to its unique complexities and velvet tone, deciding then to dedicate myself to mastering its beauty. This choice opened doors to incredible communities and numerous bands, eventually leading me to perform with the Guelph Youth Symphony Orchestra as a proud local musician" - Dante Castro

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ORCHESTRAL MASTERWORKS

A powerful rendition of Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, Adagio—Allegro molto. Dante leads the Guelph Youth Symphony Orchestra sections as principal horn, delivering bold calls and heroic orchestral themes.

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Making Connections

Dante actively travels to masterclasses, festivals, and horn events to learn from leading artists and build strong connections in the music world — like his recent visit with David Cooper, Principal Horn of the LA Philharmonic.

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MODERN ECHOES

From orchestras and chamber ensembles to bands and collaborative projects, Dante thrives when making music with others. He moves easily between classical and contemporary settings, always listening, blending, and supporting the people around him. Through new arrangements, genre‑crossing collaborations, and experimentation with electronics, he continually looks for ways to modernize the French horn while keeping its rich, traditional voice at the center.

Listen on Spotify

Past Performances

December 20, 2025

Mackinnon 113

Guelph, ON

December 26, 2026

River Run Centre

Guelph, ON

March 26, 2026

Mackinnon 113

Guelph, ON

April 13, 2026

Mackinnon 113

Guelph, ON

N/A

TBD

Points of Contact

@the_horndude

@Dante.Castro.Horn

@Dante.CastroHorn@gmail.com

Available upon Request

• DANTE CASTRO • THE ART OF THE FRENCH HORN •