Family, friends, colleagues, and students gathered at the Funeraria del Magisterio Nacional in San José on Wednesday to pay tribute to Adrián Goizueta, the Argentine-Costa Rican musician who died suddenly on January 5.
Goizueta’s ashes were placed among white flowers and a photograph of him playing guitar. The scene reflected his passion and dedication to music throughout his life.
The ceremony included notable musicians and producers from Costa Rica. William Hernández, producer of the Día del Artista Nacional, presented a recognition plaque to Goizueta’s son. This award had been pending since August.
“Adrián Goizueta was the change of life, he was music made man, he taught many musicians (…). He was a figure who represented Costa Rica worldwide,” said Hernández.
Luis Jákamo, another producer and musician present at the event, spoke about Goizueta’s influence on Costa Rican music. “He was a very important person for the Costa Rican scene. He came from Argentina to show us another perspective on making music. He showed us his knowledge; he was a great teacher,” said Jákamo.
Jákamo also described Goizueta as an “unconditional and very special” friend and highlighted his role in founding Grupo Experimental as well as mentoring many emerging artists.
Luis Porras, producer and former manager of Goizueta, remembered him as having a strong but caring character. “I took classes with him at UNA (Universidad Nacional) in 1998. He discovered my ability for music business and artist management to such an extent that I gained the confidence to manage his career. We toured America and Europe,” Porras recounted.
Porras added that Goizueta was generous and believed in collaboration: “He always insisted that earnings from productions or concerts be shared equally among everyone.”
“He was very paternal. He scolded us like a father would scold you. I learned to produce because of those scoldings he gave me, but honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am nor would I handle the productions I do if it hadn’t been for what I learned from him,” Porras confessed.
Attendees recalled how Goizueta’s legacy extended beyond compositions or performances—his teaching and humanity left a lasting mark on those around him. His distinctive style will continue to resonate in Costa Rican musical history.
