Local Piano Prodigy Julio Barreto Honored with Steinway Award, Performs at OPAC Tourism Event

On March 28, the Oxford Performing Arts Center (OPAC) hosted International Piano Day during the monthly meeting of area tourism stakeholders. Over 30 representatives from local hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions attended the event. The meeting featured piano-themed decorations and included a tour of OPAC, known as the 'busiest stage in Alabama.'

Audrey Maxwell, the tourism director of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, thanked the OPAC staff for their hospitality and the complimentary tickets to an Elvis Presley tribute show offered to the attendees.

The meeting's highlight was a piano performance by Julio Barreto, OPAC’s Director of Music Education and founder of the Rubato International Piano Competition. His performance showcased the cultural importance of the venue.

Julio Barreto was recently awarded the Steinway and Sons Piano Top Teacher Award for his contributions to music education, following a nomination by the Steinway Piano Gallery in Birmingham. Gavin English, president of Steinway and Sons, praised Barreto's influence on young musicians.

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