Lara Urrutia
Dancer
Music is a big part of Lara Urrutia’s life. She is a Lecturer at the University of Redlands School of Music, where she also heads the accompanying department and is responsible for scheduling accompanists for virtually all of the guest recitals, student and faculty performances, conferences, and symposiums on campus. Lara is also the pianist/organist for Redlands United Church of Christ.
“Since my student days at the U of R, the symphony has held a special place in my heart,” Lara says. “I was very fortunate as an undergrad to have played with the Redlands Symphony, so having the chance to pay it forward by fundraising is a wonderful opportunity for me.”
Lara recently became engaged “to the love of my life,” and the happy couple (both pianists) are planning a 2016 wedding in Redlands, where they plan to settle and raise their family.
When she’s not tinkling the ivories, Lara is an enthusiastic cook (especially Lebanese food) and enjoys taking hikes with Mazy, her Great Pyrenees. She loves collecting art, cross-stitching and plays a mean accordion. She’s “obsessed” with her succulent collection and is an avid believer in feng shui.
“I plan on having fun and doing something totally different from my daily life as a member of Dancing with the Stars,” Lara says. “I admire dancers for their hard work, dedication and grace, so to have a taste of what it takes to be a dancer will be eye-opening.”