In a practice room at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) cellist Adela Ramirez sits with her instrument, working through a challenging piece. As a high school senior, Adela’s years with MYSO have shaped not just her musical skills, but her entire outlook on life. Her story offers a glimpse into the world of youth orchestras and the impact they can have on a young musician’s life.
Adela’s musical journey began in second grade with a simple nomination form. Her teacher, spotting potential, recommended Adela for MYSO’s Progressions program. Faced with a list of instruments, Adela made a choice that would shape her future: she circled “cello,” despite not knowing what it was. “I didn’t know what a cello was, but I still circled that instrument on the piece of paper,” Adela recalls with a laugh.
From those early days of uncertainty, Adela’s passion for the cello grew steadily. MYSO became a significant part of her life, a place where she could dive deep into music several times a week. “I love being surrounded by the music, just being totally immersed in all things music,” Adela shares. “Being around passionate people and being able to solve things and figure things out like a puzzle–all of it is good.”
As the oldest child in her family, Adela has always felt a responsibility to set a good example. MYSO provided her with opportunities to develop leadership skills, from receiving the Tony Lucas Award in her early years to speaking at MYSO events and winning the Philharmonia concerto competition, and advancing to the Senior Symphony. These experiences, she says, have both boosted her confidence and pushed her to grow.
Of course, Adela’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. In her younger years, she remembers feeling intimidated by the older students, thinking they were “so far ahead” of her. She even thought there might come a day when she’d have to stop playing the cello. Yet, as she progressed through MYSO’s programs, that day never came. Instead, her love for the instrument only grew stronger.
Now, as she prepares for her final year of high school, Adela is looking towards the future. Her goal? To study cello performance at a conservatory. It’s a path that seemed unimaginable when she first started, but one she now pursues with determination.
Reflecting on her journey, Adela offers advice to younger musicians: “Just give music a chance. As much as it sometimes feels exhausting, and you don’t want to sit in a practice room, the reward is so worth it.” She emphasizes that you don’t need to pursue a career in music to benefit from playing an instrument. “Just being involved, listening, and engaging with music is special,” she says.
Adela’s story highlights the importance of community support in nurturing talent. From her second-grade teacher who first recognized her potential, to her MYSO instructors who believed in her, to her family who supported her unique path–each played a crucial role in her development.
As Adela prepares for the next chapter of her musical journey, one thing is clear: her time with MYSO has set a strong foundation for whatever comes next. Her story serves as an inspiration for young musicians and a reminder of the powerful impact music education can have on a young person’s life.
Listen, follow, and subscribe to the MYSO podcast on Spotify or anywhere else you stream.