Cuba Shines in the Ibero-American Youth Orchestra
Young Cuban musicians Patricia Arleen Romero and Dayan Valdés Valdés, both accomplished violinists, have been selected to join the Ibero-American Youth Orchestra (OJI). This orchestra is one of the most inspiring initiatives of the Iberorquestas Juveniles international cooperation program, in which Cuba proudly participates.
The gathering will take place in Panama City from September 14 to 21, uniting musicians from 15 Ibero-American countries. The grand finale concert is scheduled for September 20. An Artistic Committee comprising specialists from El Salvador, Panama, Portugal, and Uruguay is diligently working on the repertoire to ensure the recital captures the unmistakable essence of Ibero-American culture and meets the high standards of excellence set by the OJI.
This orchestra brings together the finest young performers from across the region. It is supported by a network of educational and outreach projects that engage thousands of children and adolescents each year, providing them with safe learning environments and the tools they need to build a brighter future.
Cuban Musicians: A Triumph of Artistic Education
Patricia Arleen Romero, one of Cuba’s representatives, graduated with honors from the Amadeo Roldán Conservatory, where she was recognized for her outstanding professional practice. Throughout her training, Romero demonstrated rigor and dedication, earning honorary distinctions and ranking at the top of her class in her sixth year. She was also named Outstanding Graduate at the conclusion of her ninth grade. She has performed in numerous concerts and collaborated with prestigious ensembles. Her achievements include placing second in the Provincial Violin Competition José White in both 2017 and 2018 and winning an award for the best interpretation of Cuban and Latin American music in 2017.
Dayan Valdés Valdés, her fellow musician, also graduated with honors upon completing his studies at the National School of Music. He is the first violinist of the school’s String Quartet and a member of the first violin section of the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba. Valdés teaches at the National School of Arts (ENA), guiding third- and fourth-year students in ensemble practice alongside leading national artists. He has performed as a soloist at the University of the Arts (ISA) and during the gala celebrating 60 years of Cuban artistic education. His career includes collaborations with both Cuban and international artists.
Valdés is also a member of the Son Trova and Renovación ensembles at the National School of Music and plans to continue his studies at the university level soon. His accolades include first and second prizes, as well as the Grand Popularity Award at the Student Festival. He has participated in various events, including the Cuban Music Festival in Mexico, the Youth Festival in Cayo Santa María, and appearances on national television.
Once again, Cuba’s National System of Artistic Education proudly showcases the nation’s contributions to the global music scene. With over six decades of history, this system currently includes 37 elementary and intermediate art schools, along with the ISA, serving more than 8,000 students. Its effectiveness and quality are the results of decades of dedicated work and institutional development throughout the largest archipelago in the Antilles. Cuba’s artistic education system remains a cornerstone of the country’s sociocultural development. Bravo!
Translated by Luis E. Amador Dominguez
