Music has the power to bring us together in ways that transcend culture, geography, and language. On August 6 and 7, 2024, the Pavilion at Ravinia became a vibrant backdrop for this kind of global exchange as young musicians from Merit and other music programs throughout Chicagoland joined in a side-by-side rehearsal with the National Children’s Symphony of Venezuela (NCSV). Under the baton of the world-renowned conductor Gustavo Dudamel, these young artists embarked on a musical journey that bridged continents and cultures.
The event kicked off on August 6, when the students were invited to dine with the members of the NCSV. This gathering provided an opportunity for the students to connect and share their passion for music, setting the stage for the next day’s rehearsal. The evening culminated in a fantastic concert by the NCSV, which left the students buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the next day’s adventures.
The following morning, 80 young musicians from eight Chicagoland music programs, including Merit, took the pavilion stage, joining forces with 80 of their Venezuelan peers. Together, they rehearsed Jean Sibelius’s Finlandia under Maestro Dudamel’s masterful direction. The rehearsal was not just a practice session; it was a remarkable exchange of knowledge and artistry. Maestro Dudamel’s warm, encouraging style kept the rehearsal full of laughter and energy as he skillfully brought out the best in each student. His approach was lighthearted and inviting, helping the young musicians feel at ease and inspired to give their all.
"This is important: you are not the future. You are the present."
Throughout the rehearsal, Dudamel shared words of wisdom that left a profound impact on the students. “This is important: you are not the future. You are the present, ” he told the young musicians. He encouraged them to “enjoy every moment” and to “enjoy the mistakes,” emphasizing that “the beauty of art is not in the perfection.” These words resonated deeply with everyone in the pavilion, sparking conversations and reflections long after the rehearsal ended.
The rehearsal at Ravinia was more than just a musical event; it was a celebration of cultural exchange, education, and the boundless potential of young musicians. Under Dudamel’s guidance, these students not only honed their musical abilities but also gained invaluable insights that will stay with them throughout their musical journeys.
