Sometimes it’s not what’s on our CVs or our academic qualifications that gives us that certain X Factor which propels us to success. Often it’s simply the ability to adapt, grow and have the confidence to challenge ourselves to step outside our comfort zones.
Tyndall’s goal is to attract and nurture people with diverse talents and excellent skills, enabling all to reach their full potential.
In celebration of the many talents at Tyndall, we are showcasing Hidden Talent with singer Armando Trapala, PhD student in Epitaxy and Physics of Nanostructures.
What is your hidden talent?
I’m a musician with a focus on classical guitar and Bel Canto opera singing. While I once tried composing music, I ultimately found myself drawn more to performance than creation.
I started studying classical guitar in high school but put it on hold when I chose to pursue a degree in Physics. Even so, music remained a big part of my life, so I joined the University Choir. There, I learned Bel Canto singing from the talented Mexican soprano Angélica Ramírez Cruz. Through the choir, I had the opportunity to perform some incredible pieces, including Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, Orff’s Carmina Burana, Vivaldi’s Gloria, and Handel’s The Messiah. I was also part of the world premiere of the Requiem by Mexican composer José F. Vásquez. As a soloist, I enjoyed singing classic Mexican songs from the ‘Golden Age of Mexican Music and Cinema,’ such as Amapola, Dime Que Sí, and Granada, in venues like the Sala Netzahualcoyotl and the Blas Galindo Auditorium in both Mexico City and the surrounding areas.
This semi-professional musical journey took a break when I moved to Ireland to focus on research with Tyndall. But music has always been a part of me; I performed México Lindo y Querido at Tyndall’s Cultural Fair, and it was a joy to share that song with everyone. I’m already looking forward to the next cultural event where I can share some classical guitar music.
What sparked your interest?
I’ve wanted to be a musician since I was a child. At first, it was out of curiosity, but over time, it grew into a true passion. I like to think that this passion was always in my veins, from the very beginning. My grandfather played guitar in a Mexican Trio, and there are several professional musicians in my mother’s family. Most of my friends are musicians too, so I’ve been surrounded by music my entire life.
What is your current role?
I am a PhD student under the supervision of Dr Emanuele Pelucchi and Gediminas Juska in the EPN group. My research focuses on the development of quantum dot platforms for quantum computing.
How has your hidden talent complemented your role and/or enhanced your research?
Music provides me with a lot of inspiration. I believe any kind of art is a great source of creativity, as it challenges you to think in different ways at once, creating a mix of pleasure and stress that’s actually quite enjoyable.
It also gives me a chance to step away from my research, offering a space to relax and let my mind open up to fresh ideas.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to try your hidden talent?
“No pain, no gain.” Mastering music requires discipline, passion, and dedication. It’s not as easy as it might seem; it takes a great deal of effort to truly master a piece—whether it’s for guitar, piano, violin, or any other instrument. You need to read the music, understand it, practice it, and most importantly, offer your own interpretation of what the composer intended, while still preserving the essence of the composition.
Pay close attention to the inflections, phrases, changes in harmony, and so on. Remember, the devil is in the details. These small elements may seem minor, but they are crucial to making your interpretation unique. They become your signature.
