In Memoriam: José-Luis Maúrtua

Central Michigan University School of Music faculty member José-Luis Maúrtua passed away in Mount Pleasant, Michigan on May 7, 2022. He was 57.

Maúrtua joined CMU in 1999 and served as director of orchestral studies and professor of composition.

“Dr. Maúrtua possessed that rare and critical requisite combination for being an outstanding pedagogue and colleague: graciousness and the pursuit of excellence,” said Eric Tucker, chair and faculty member in the School of Music. “His kind spirit and affability will remain treasures within the School of Music for years to come.”

A native of Peru, Maúrtua was an accomplished composer whose works have been performed around the globe in countries including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, Czech Republic, Italy, England, China, Colombia, Costa Rica and Spain.

Maúrtua was a passionate educator and provided opportunities for students and colleagues to perform with orchestras in Mexico and Peru. He also was regularly involved with youth orchestras throughout Michigan.

Maúrtua is survived by his wife Ana Maria Mejía, his mother and father, sister, and extended family, friends and colleagues. Services will be held at Clark Family Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, May 11, with a visitation at 2 p.m. followed by a service at 3 p.m.