One of Venezuela’s greatest prides in recent years has again made it clear why he has triumphed so often throughout his career, and that is Gustavo Dudamel. Recently, the artist put in an appearance along with the Simón Bolívar Orchestra of Venezuela to join the other great figures at the halftime show of the FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain, which Spain won.
The orchestra conductor, once again, impacted the world with one of those uncommon performances in this format, so, as always, drew a lot of attention.
A historic accomplishment achieved by Dudamel
Dudamel achieved something truly historic on July 19, which was to bring the Simón Bolívar Orchestra of Venezuela and the New York Philharmonic together for the first time, resulting in a spectacular 11-minute show in which about twenty El Sistema musicians were conducted by the Barquisimeto native.
As said by the also composer, the main purpose of the performance was organized to show solidarity with the people of Venezuela for the consequences of the double earthquake that hit a large part of the country on June 24, when also marks both the Battle of Carabobo in 1821 and the Feast of John the Baptist, with its traditional drum roll, songs, and processions.
In a post shared on his official Instagram account, the musician announced his participation in the ceremony and sent an encouraging message to his compatriots in such a difficult moment. The artist said following:
‘‘My heart remains with the people of Venezuela in these difficult days, and to share the stage in this unforgettable moment with my beloved Bolivars and my El Sistema family is a powerful expression of the strength and resilience of our country. To bring them together for the first time in history alongside the extraordinary New York Philharmonic, as I prepare for this exciting new chapter with them, is a beautiful expression of global unity and love’’.
Other important details of that day
The show, performed at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, New York, was completely produced by Global Citizen and directed by Chris Martin, lead vocalist of the iconic band Coldplay. What is most noteworthy about the concert was the participation of some of The Muppets’ most iconic characters, Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem. They were also joined by some of Sesame Street’s most beloved characters such as Miss Piggy, Elmo, and Cookie Monster.
As was announced previously, Shakira (performing “Dai Dai,” the official anthem of the FIFA World Cup), Burna Boy, Justin Bieber, and BTS were also present at the event.
It should also be noted that this event not only served as an opportunity to raise awareness on behalf of the most deprived, but also as a fundraising initiative which seeks to ensure quality education and sport for children in poverty around the world, everything through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
And with respect to the outfit the artist wore during his show, Dudamel was dressed in an elegant blue suit with a very large number one on the back and a black bow on the lapel to pay his respects to the dead and victims as a result of the double earthquake in his country. Each and every one of the musicians who accompanied the maestro did the same to show support to the artist in his grief as a Venezuelan and pay tribute to those who have lost everything or are still under the rubble.
Venezuelans, more present than ever in a FIFA World Cup
Evidently, Dudamel’s performance was well-covered by international media around the world, but he was not the only Venezuelan to shine in a World Cup. At the opening ceremony, we also enjoyed the greatest hits of urban artist Danny Ocean, who became the first Venezuelan to perform at an official World Cup opening ceremony with his song “Partidazo”, which by the way, is part of the official album FIFA released to celebrate the tournament.
The event took place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and the young performer wore a leather outfit with seven silver stars embroidered on the collar of his jacket. With the outfit designed by the Mexican brand Siete Cactus, he sought to pay tribute to his Venezuelan roots and the national team of his country, which wears the same color on its uniform.
This is how Venezuelans, whenever they are in the world, shine in all their glory despite any trance the country is in—and Maestro Dudamel and Danny Ocean are a prime example of this.
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