Singer-songwriter Carlos Vives inspires Children International musicians

What began as a heartfelt social media invitation to legendary Latin American artist Carlos Vives — in which the young members of a wind orchestra based at Children International’s Santa Marta community center invited him to sing with them — turned into a journey of deep emotions two weeks ago, with dreams crossing the threshold of imagination to become reality.

Vives showed up at the community center not far from where he grew up in Santa Marta, Colombia, on July 30 to surprise the orchestra members who issued the video. Plato described music as an essential element for the soul, and that’s exactly what Vives, whose musical career spans more than three decades, gave during his visit — not only to the 70 orchestra members but also to everyone who delighted in his illustrious presence.

“Experiencing the orchestra and seeing it, was very moving,” said Vives, who is one of Latin America’s most beloved and influential artists, known for honoring his Colombian heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern Latin music — earning him global acclaim and numerous accolades, including multiple GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Awards.

He continued: “When a child doesn’t have the same opportunities that some of us had, and finds this path — the path of music — and seeing them feel empowered, feeling important to society, that is something truly wonderful.”

With the humble charm that defines him, he arrived at the community center smiling, greeting everyone along the way until he reached the grand hall where the young musicians were performing “La Tierra del Olvido,” one of his emblematic songs, considered a milestone in Colombian popular music.

For a long moment, Vives stood almost motionless, as if immersed in his memories — perhaps evoking that imaginary, utopian and conflict-free world described in the song. His gaze connected with each of the young performers, who gave their all to win his heart, until one final chord signaled the end of the performance.

“Congratulations,” Carlos said with a tone of nostalgia. “Thank you for that repertoire, for interpreting songs that are part of my life and my story. I want you to know how privileged you are. When I was a child, I was lucky my grandmother played the piano, and she discovered I had a unique voice. Music is important — it keeps us away from many things and brings us closer to a more fulfilling life and intellectual growth.”

With her charm and sparkling presence during the performance of “Asi Fue,” Alieth, one of the youth orchestra members, captured the attention of Carlos, of Claudia Elena (his wife), and of everyone in the room. But the highlight came when she sang “La Tierra del Olvido” alongside Carlos, sealing a truly memorable moment.

“Carlos Vives’ visit was a very special and meaningful event — not just because he’s a world-renowned artist, but also because his presence brought joy, inspiration and hope to all of us who were there,” said Alieth, who is 14. “Seeing him connect with us, listening to our stories, and encouraging us with his example left a deep impact. His visit reminded us of the value of our roots, the importance of believing in our dreams, and working for a better future. It was a moment filled with music, emotion and human connection that I will never forget.”

Carlos expressed deep curiosity for each section of the orchestra, prompting him to ask to hear the musicians separately. He appeared engrossed by each one — with sounds of the strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion and harmonies completely enveloping him.

Jhonar, the orchestra’s conductor, guided that moment with mastery and calm. “The presence of maestro Carlos Vives at our community center was an incredibly rewarding experience,” he said. “Thank God, we fulfilled a dream that, at first, seemed impossible. His visit shows we’re on the right path. Personally, and professionally, this is a huge step, and inspires and motivates us to keep believing that music has the power to transform realities, change lives, and — why not? — even save the world.”

Youth orchestra members Ana, Milena and Stiven explained to Carlos the transformative power music had in their lives. They spoke of discipline, responsibility, determination and confidence that make them competent and capable of taking risks, as well as learning from mistakes.

They each described Vives’ visit in their own words:

The visit of this legendary musical ambassador will live on in the hearts of everyone who was there at the Santa Marta community center that day.

“His visit is an incredibly meaningful moment for our youth and our staff,” said Hermelinda Guarin Restrepo, Agency Director of Children International Colombia. “It will encourage them to dream bigger and reach higher.”

Vives departed after a few hours, impressed by the abundance of talent, but most of all, happy to witness the fertile planting of this art in young people’s lives.

“A young person who embraces an instrument … no longer embraces a weapon,” he said with conviction.

And so began the hopes for a second meeting — this time sparked by Carlos Vives himself, our Colombian music icon: “Maybe we’ll come up with something special, so this year doesn’t pass without doing something important … something that brings us together in our theaters here. How do you like that idea?”