If someone ever asked me how much music means to me, words would not be enough to describe the transformative power this unique art form holds. After eight years of being part of the school’s music programme, I believe as an eleven grader, our school’s CAS Symphony Orchestra tour throughout Europe, is the best way to conclude years filled with discipline, practice, and love for music. As part of the 28 students group who travelled representing not only our school but also our country, this life changing experience not only allowed us to share our local sounds with people from all around the world, but also, inspired us to be transformative leaders – young artists who understand the value of diversity and teamwork. Every stage we played on, every applause we received, and every new culture we discovered, reminded us that music is more than performance; it is connection, identity, and hope.
Our tour began at the Cultureel Podium Lutherse Kerk. Our first concert, “Colombia in Maastricht,” was a beautiful way to launch our journey. This historic Baroque building, with more than 340 years of history, served as a Lutheran church for centuries. Due to its cultural and architectural significance, it was designated a national monument in 1966, and today, it continues to serve as an important auditorium for a wide range of cultural events. On this occasion, classical music, contemporary Colombian rock, and lively cumbias filled the Dutch air with rhythm, passion, and the unique sounds of our homeland. The audience was very welcoming and made us feel we where closer to our country than we were. Our second concert took place on the Multifunctionael Center De Borgh in Budel, Netherlands. Unlike the historic solemnly of our first venue, De Borh welcomed us with a modern and versatile space with an otherworldly acoustic. The auditorium was filled with a wide audience including experts, music lovers, friendly faces, and curious families eager to listen something new. We played with freedom, confidence and pride of our culture, and that was felt with the smiles, applauses and tears we got in return.
Our Jury concert took place in Sint-Nicolas church, at Pelt Belgium. That day every violin could be heard. Violas, cellos and double basses sounded neater than ever; our brass and woodwinds played as precisely as ever, piano sounded beautifully melancholic, and the constant beat of drums reminded us of all the hearts beating in Colombia, who always were with us in the distance showing us their support. The true thing about music, is that it only needs people willing to listen. That day, our orchestra sounded more powerful and united than ever before. Colombian music seems to sound more beautiful when you are far from home. Many of us could not hold back the tears while playing, and that deep feeling is what shows that arts will always be worth everything. I believe that has been our best performance ever, awarding us a “Second Prize”. That day reminded us that art transcends borders and that on that stage, we were not just students; we were artists, truly seen and heard.
Our last concert took place at Pelt, at a very special concert that is the closure to the European Music Festival for Young People. We played our hearts out, knowing we had left our country’s flag waving very high and knowing all the discipline and years of rehearsal have absolutely been worth it. Our music maestros. Our heartfelt gratitude may always be with you. Our conductor, Andres Martinez, thank you for inviting us to dream beyond the limits, and teaching us with hardwork those dreams can always come true. Our dear maestros Wilson Rodriguez, Steve Lopez, Julian Misnaza and Juan Carlos, your dedicated work and guidance have shaped us in the musicians and the people we are today. This journey has showed our growth as artists and the power of teamwork. As all my fellow eleven graders and I close this CAS Symphony Orchestra chapter of our lives, which I believe has been the best so far, we carry with us lessons, memories, and a renewed commitment to music that will continue to inspire us wherever we go. To all the musicians who stay being part of this project, dream big and work hard, the next international tour might be closer than you believe!
