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Building bridges in the art world is the goal of Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Through his Encuentros program, hundreds of young musicians from all over the world learn from the very best. We were able to meet the members and listen to their concert in Los Angeles.
Great start
Through the Encuentros program, organized by his foundation, star conductor Gustavo Dudamel aims to give young people from all walks of life access to performance, art and change their lives. Among the 100 children selected for the trip to the USA is the violinist Ana Molina from Madrid. On the eve of the trip, she admitted: «I still do not believe in my luck, I hope to get the most out of the project.»
After two weeks of playing, socializing and rehearsing, the young musicians are set to perform at the legendary Hollywood Bowl. For John Colon from Puerto Rico, this is a dream come true. “Gustavo has such energy, as soon as he enters the room, the mood changes, everyone seems to relax a little,” he says. «He has a charisma and strength that no other conductor has.»
Keep faith in music
Hundreds of young musicians from North and South America and Asia have passed through the Encuentros program over the years and Europe.Gustavo Dudamel and his wife Maria Valverde admit that they have seen how music changed the lives of their wards more than once.
«They came from 22 different countries, and our task is to form a single whole here,» says the maestro. “When they are together, they see their inspiration and passion for music become stronger.” “The main goal is to enable them to continue to believe in music and in their dreams, to make this experience a way of life in their community, and therefore to convey our message further «, adds Maria Valverde.
Gustavo Dudamel, himself originally from Venezuela, participated in a similar program called El Sistema, where musical talent and social responsibility go hand in hand. He later said that this experience turned his life upside down. «I believe that the values of working together, common goals inspire all children participating in El Sistema and programs based on it. They can become better citizens of the world,» the maestro notes.
Based on the achievements of the program, Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra created their own project to help disadvantaged children — YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles). Children here are provided with free instruments, musical training and academic support.
In the legendary Beckman Center, which houses YOLA, guest musicians from the Encuentros program also rehearse. They are excited: ahead is the final concert. «This experience had a very positive effect on me, since I arrived, I feel inspired,» says young trumpeter Roderick Alvarado. — I saw a new approach to music — not through technique, but through the desire to touch the hearts and minds of other people.»
The Growth Zone
As the concert approaches, the mentors put in the finishing touches. Among them is Sarah Willis of the Berlin Philharmonic. «Building bridges is the goal we pursue within Encuentros and YOLA,» she says. — We have guys here from very poor strata, and there are from the privileged, where there were excellent teachers and concerts. So, they learn from each other.»
Another mentor of the program is the French trumpeter Marc Gejon. «This experience will transform them in human terms,» he is sure. «I'm inspired to see them grow further.»
At last the big day has arrived. Young musicians are unleashing their full potential under the guidance of the radiant Gustavo Dudamel. — he admires. — This brings me back to that Gustavo, who once, surrounded by his friends, dreamed — dreamed of enjoying life and bringing joy to people. I think that, ultimately, this is the main goal.»