Last night, on July 21st, the resplendent Cantiere Rossini in Pesaro became the epicenter of European musical brilliance as over 150 young musicians from 15 countries took the stage for a memorable performance. This dazzling event, part of the Sistema Europe Youth Orchestra (SEYO) 2024, drew a packed audience and captured the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide through a live-streamed broadcast.
(You can watch the broadcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/VWEoceF4C6g?feature=share)
Under the expert baton of Maestro Roberto Abbado and alongside distinguished conductors Charlotte Politi, Kyriaki Kountouri, Etienne Abelin, Juan Carlos Maggiorani, and Ron Davis Alvarez, the orchestra delivered an unforgettable evening. The program featured a rich tapestry of works, including compositions by Smetana, Sibelius, Rossini, Mahler, and other luminaries, showcasing the immense talent and dedication of these young artists.
CONCERT AS THE CULMINATION OF THE ORCHESTRAL CAMP
The concert marked the culmination of SEYO’s seventh summer residency, running from July 13 to 21 in Pesaro, which is honored as the Italian Capital of Culture 2024. Hosted by Liberamusica, the residency gathered these exceptional musicians, aged between 8 and 20, for an intensive week of rehearsals, cultural exchange, and environmental advocacy.
Three young Serbian musicians – Mina Jovičić (cello), Dunja Laušević (viola), and Mia Jovanović (percussion) – were participants in this inspiring event as representatives of the organization Music Art Project, which is the Serbian partner within the Sistema Europe network.
FOCUS: MUSIC AND YOUTH FOR ECOLOGY
During their stay, the young participants immersed themselves in rigorous rehearsals, guided by leading professionals. They also engaged in activities promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship, reflecting the theme of this year’s residency, “Song for the Earth.” This initiative builds upon SEYO 2022’s focus on environmental issues and integrates it with a celebration of youthful voices and unity.
An additional highlight of the residency occurred on July 18, when the musicians performed “Concerto per Alberi” at Palazzo Ducale in Urbino. This evocative concert, inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding woods, blended the essence of nature with the artistry of the young performers, creating a mesmerizing experience for attendees.
A WORD FORM THE ORGANIZERS
Statements from key figures of the SEYO project underscored the significance of this year’s event. Marshall Marcus, President and Founder of Sistema Europe, expressed his enthusiasm: “SEYO 2024, Song for the Earth, is another classic gathering of pan-European ensemble music making, infused with joy, passion, and commitment. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Hilti Foundation for their continued support and look forward to the inspiring performances of our young musicians.”
José Angel Salazar Marin, Co-Artistic Director of SEYO 2024, reflected on the unifying power of the orchestra: “SEYO 2024 is a celebration of unity, diversity, and the transformative power of music. It brings together students from diverse backgrounds to speak through music for a better future.”
Chiara Galli, Co-founder of LiberaMusica, encapsulated the spirit of the event: “Hosting SEYO 2024 is the realization of a dream for us at LiberaMusica. Music has the power to transform society, and it is deeply meaningful to witness 200 young people coming together to work for change.”
As the final notes of the concert echoed through the Cantiere Rossini, it was clear that SEYO 2024 had once again achieved its mission of fostering international camaraderie through music, inspiring audiences, and advocating for a sustainable future.
