Rio Grande do Sul Youth Orchestra of Brazil Partners with UIndy

Written by Addison Campbell

On February 5, the Rio Grande do Sul Youth Orchestra of Brazil joined the University of Indianapolis Music Department for a day of cultural and musical exchange. The Rio Grande do Sul Youth Orchestra Project – Transformation Through Music – generates opportunities for children and young people  in situations of social vulnerability, to build a better future. 

The exchange to Indianapolis was organized by Indiana Partners of the Americas to connect music students in volunteer action through professional, educational, and cultural programs. 

The Rio Grande do Sul Youth Orchestra students had the opportunity to sit alongside the UIndy Symphony Orchestra and play pieces by Beethoven, conducted by Dr. Laurie Williams, as well as their culture’s music. 

Music education student Ethan Hacker ’26 stated, “I loved how connected we all were. Even though we rarely understood each other, we managed to communicate clearly when discussing our musical experience. The opportunity proved to me that music is a tool that can exceed any border or language barrier.” 

This once in a lifetime experience is one that these orchestra students will never forget, and is just the beginning of many partnerships with students  across the globe.