Francisco is currently the second bassoonist of the Louisville Orchestra and lecturer of bassoon at the University of Louisville. Originally from Puerto Rico, Mr. Joubert Bernard completed his B.M. at the “Conservatorio de Música de Puerto Rico” and has a M.M. degree from the Yale School of Music. Before joining the Louisville Orchestra, Francisco was a bassoon fellow at the New World Symphony in Miami Florida where he performed with renown artists around the world including a solo performance for the famous film composer John Williams. Francisco has performed with orchestras such as The Nashville Symphony Orchestra, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra, and many others. Francisco was featured in the April 2024 volume of the International Musician. In addition to his interests in classical music, Mr. Joubert Bernard is also interested in other music genres, expanding the role of the bassoon in music through his online persona VG Bassoonist. In 2022 Francisco became one of Sphinx’s MPower Artist Grant recipients and plans to continue inspiring and educating young bassoonists through his online platforms with the aid of this grant.
What do you enjoy most about performing with the Louisville Orchestra?
The variety of music played throughout the season and the projects involved.
What is your favorite type of orchestral music to perform, and why?
Romantic music due to the expressive opportunities especially for the bassoon.
Who is your favorite composer or musician?
Stravinsky
Do you have a Louisville Orchestra or event that is especially meaningful or memorable?
Ravel Piano Concerto in G played by Teddy and the history of Afro American Music narrated by Jecorey Arthur.
What’s something unique, surprising, fun, or interesting about you?
I love taking care of plants.
What are some of your hobbies outside the LO?
Coding, Video Games, Plants.
How do you stay connected with the community outside of your performances?
Visiting the different local restaurants and stores.
Favorite orchestral work?
The Rite of Spring!
What's on your playlist (what song are you currently into)?
Mostly hispanic music from Afro-Peruvian to Bad Bunny