The Impossible Orchestra
The pandemic may have stopped live orchestral performances temporarily, but it hasn’t put a stop to musical creativity. Of all the recent videos online, one of the most interesting may be “The Impossible Orchestra.” Composed of 29 outstanding musicians from 14 different countries, it is truly an all-star ensemble that has been brought together by conductor Alondra de la Parra. Where else might you find famous soloists Maxim Vengerov (violin), Alisa Weilerstein (cello), Emmanuel Pahud (flute) joining forces with jazz greats Arturo Sandoval (trumpet), Paquito D’Rivera (clarinet, saxophone), and operatic tenor Rolando Villazon playing claves?
The Impossible Orchestra made its debut with the interpretation of the quintessential Mexican symphonic composition: Danzón No. 2, by Arturo Márquez. The music is accompanied by prima ballerina Elisa Carrillo with choreography created specifically for the event by renowned Christopher Wheeldon.
Worried about the impact of the pandemic in her home country, Mexican conductor Alondra de la Parra has launched one of the most ambitious projects in contemporary music in order to help Mexican women and children affected by COVID-19. The Orchestra is born from the conviction that music has the power to unite us. No matter our origins, our nationalities or our differences, music creates a universal language of hope in difficult times.
You can read more about this project and view this remarkable video at The Impossible Orchestra website.