San Diego Symphony’s Diego Plata Inspires High School Students to Consider Career in the Arts

Held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, the panel brought together talented local artists and creative professionals to share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs with a captivated audience of high school students. For many in attendance—particularly those studying acting, music, visual arts, and production—this was more than a presentation; it was a moment of connection and possibility.

A Window into Life in the Arts

San Diego Symphony’s own Diego Plata, Orchestra Operations Manager spoke candidly about his day-to-day operations managing professional musicians. Diego shared that no two days are exactly alike—rehearsals, performances, collaborations, and continuous practice all shape a dynamic and demanding career.

Diego, who is a professional musician and has a doctorate in musical performance and conducting himself, also talked at length about his own personal and professional decision to transition from musical performance to arts administration.

“I wanted to be a performer and to play and make music,” says Diego. “By accident, someone told me about an internship in development. I had no idea, but I wanted to submit my application and say yes. I loved arts administration and being behind the scenes to bring arts to the community. I made the switch from performer to administrator in 2020 and never looked back,” said Diego. “My advice to you all is to take every opportunity you can. Say yes, don’t be afraid to try something new. If you don’t like it, you can always change your mind down the road.”

A Most Memorable Moment

A particularly engaging part of the discussion focused on how the arts and their audiences have changed over the years. Diego spoke about shifts in performance formats and particularly about the importance of reaching new and diverse audiences, highlighting innovation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and increased accessibility as key trends shaping the future of the arts community in San Diego and beyond.

“One of the most memorable experiences of my time with the San Diego Symphony has been our visit to Las Colinas Women’s Detention Center. Access to the arts is something many people take for granted, yet for those who are incarcerated, it is often entirely out of reach. To share music with these women—even for a single day—was really moving. Some sang, some clapped, and some were brought to tears. It was a powerful reminder of music’s ability to connect and uplift, and it remains one of the most meaningful moments of my career so far.”

“As one of the counselors in charge of securing panelists, this year I reached out to some of my favorite San Diego creative arts organizations, and this, of course, included the San Diego Symphony! My goal with the Creative Arts panel is to show our students that there are an infinite number of ways to keep the arts in your life, whether it be for a career, to volunteer or just for fun. I am thankful for the stories and advice Diego shared with our students!” Canyon Crest Academy counselor Vanessa McPherson states.

The San Diego Symphony is committed to engaging with students and the dedicated educators who challenge, inspire, and guide them each day. We are equally inspired by the students themselves—whose curiosity, creativity, and perspectives remind us that learning is a shared exchange. We extend our sincere gratitude to Canyon Crest Academy for hosting this Creative Arts panel and for fostering meaningful connections between young artists and the professional arts community.