This summer marked an exciting milestone—the 5th anniversary of the OPO Summer Camp. With woodwind, brass, and percussion sections added this year, it was our most vibrant summer camp yet.
Hosted at The Plaza Live from May 29 to June 7, 2025, this immersive 8-day program is designed for high school level musicians looking to sharpen their skills and deepen their love of music. Under the direction of Summer Camp Artistic Director Dr. Mauricio Céspedes Rivero, students study with Principal Musicians from the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. With the addition of woodwinds, brass, and percussion sections this year, the soundscape of camp has expanded—and so has the excitement.
“I remember in my first year of camp we were only a string camp,” said Rasha, this year’s concertmaster and a fifth-year camper. “Now we have winds and percussion. I think it’s so awesome to play repertoire that’s not only exclusive to strings but includes all the instruments in the symphony. It really shows how far this camp has come.”
Throughout the week, campers explore small and large ensemble playing, music history, solo performance, and a variety of other musical genres. Students also toured their Summer Camp musical showcase with performances at Orlando Lutheran Towers and Orlando City Hall. The experience concluded with a full performance at The Plaza Live on June 7, 2025, showcasing all that they’ve learned.
A Week of Growth and Connection
Each camper brings a unique story to the program—musically, emotionally, and personally.
For Caitlyn, a cellist returning for her third year, the expanded instrumentation brought a fresh challenge.
“My favorite part of camp was the really cool repertoire we had, and adding band this year was really cool. It’s a very unique and advanced sound,” she said. “Blending with other instruments and other sections has been a prominent part of this year.”
For many, music is more than notes—it’s a bridge.
“My brother has Down Syndrome, and sometimes the only way to communicate with him is through music,” Isaac shared, a bassist in his third year back at camp. “It’s an extension of how I can relate to my brother and be a better brother for him.”
Leading by Example
This camp isn’t just about learning—it’s about leadership.
“Something I’ve learned this year is how to be a leader,” said Joseilys, a third-year camper on viola. “Not just because I am sitting as section leader, but also working with the coaches. Being able to musically share ideas has been a lot of fun.”
Her stand partner Rodrigo, attending for the first time, echoed the growth:
“Being with so many students, my ear and my balance has definitely improved. I take more time to appreciate not only what I’m playing, but what other sections are playing.”
Music With Purpose
For these young musicians, music isn’t just about the notes—it’s a calling to connect with others.
“For me, playing music has always been about the audience,” says Omar, a percussionist at camp. “I think that as musicians we’re supposed to tell a story and create emotion, to communicate that to an audience and inspire.”
Cellist Anthony, now in his second year, reflected on what the experience has meant:
“Doing the tour and going around the city and getting to play for people—it was really touching,” he said. “When I play, I don’t want to just play the music—I want to be the music.”
Violinist Daniela captured the heart of it all:
“I play music because I love serving people… it unites communities. It’s so powerful how music can connect each one of us.”
Supporting the Journey
With support from our Title Sponsors, Robert and Diane Smedley, and our dedicated team of instructors and volunteers, this year’s OPO Summer Camp is a celebration of connection, growth, and the boundless joy of music. Many students in camp are graduating high school and continuing their journey, not just as better musicians, but as more confident, compassionate, and connected individuals. We are proud of the immense work our students have done and strive to support them in all stages of their musical journey.