Madrid rose to its feet, with endless applause filling the National Music Auditorium of the Spanish capital. It was the perfect setting for the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela and maestro Gustavo Dudamel in the final show of their European tour
Before an audience that included key figures from Spain’s cultural and musical scene, as well as Venezuelan musicians trained in El Sistema and devoted admirers of Gustavo Dudamel and the orchestra, the ensemble brought their 2025 European Tour to a grand finale in Madrid.
This performance was not just the final act of the tour.
But also an important milestone in the ongoing celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the Simón Bolívar Musical Foundation, better known as El Sistema.
At every venue across Europe, the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra and Gustavo Dudamel carved out a new legacy for El Sistema.
The brilliance of Venezuelan music was evident through compositions by maestros Ricardo Lorenz and Gonzalo Grau.
Also the captivating performance of cuatro player Jorge Glem further enriched the experience.
Paris, London, Berlin, Munich, Brussels, and Madrid—each stop on the tour saw the OSSBV and Dudamel evolving, adapting, and refining their artistry.
El Sistema’s executive director, Eduardo Méndez, highlighted the dedication and hard work in this tour possible.
He also underscored the significance of the academic exchanges that were fostered through this initiative.
Additionally, the tour provided direct interaction with programs inspired by El Sistema, such as Demos in Paris, Acción Social in Spain, The Nucleo Project, and the Central Foundation Boys’ School music program in London.
“Every time El Sistema embarks on a journey, the academic process continues, enriched by countless connections and activities”, Méndez noted.
“This time, relationships were established with institutions like the Paris Conservatory and the Conservatory of Lyon, among others,” said.
He also emphasized the deep connection shared with Venezuelan musicians who had once been part of El Sistema.
Many of them attended the orchestra’s concerts, ensuring the performers felt welcomed.
In some cases, they even joined in for the interpretation of selected pieces, strengthening their bond through music.
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