The keys to success: A pianist's journey from Venezuela to Athens

When Alejandro Orta found himself discussing music with Gustavo Dudamel—the visionary conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and future director of the New York Philharmonic—he knew his journey from Venezuela to the United States had come full circle.

Orta, a pianist majoring in music in the Honors Tutorial College, first met Dudamel when he was a child in Venezuela and again as part of his senior capstone project.

"It was surreal," Orta said. "The first time I met him was when he played in the Rios Reyna, Teresa Carreño concert hall in Venezuela. And now I was interviewing him as part of my thesis.”

From winning piano competitions and participating in masterclasses with renowned artists like Jean-Yves Thibaudet to performing at the Kennedy Center, Orta’s time at OHIO has been a series of milestones.

_{Top photo credit: Olivia Lutz}

Growing up in Venezuela, Orta was surrounded by a rich musical tradition. The sounds of classical compositions, folk melodies, and jazz improvisations filled his childhood, nurturing a deep love for the piano.

Orta's passion for music never wavered. It became both an escape and a source of strength, guiding him toward a future beyond his country's borders.

"The piano was my voice when words failed," he said.

Coming to Ohio University was a leap of faith. One that brought both excitement and challenges. Adapting to Ohio was challenging, but music bridged the gap.

"No matter where I was, the piano felt like home," he said. 

Orta built a community that embraced his talent and passion. His professors and peers played a crucial role in his growth.

Under mentor Dr. Christopher Fisher, professor of piano and co-chaire of the Keyboard Division of the School of Music in the Chadwick + Morrow College of Fine Arts, Orta refined his technique and expanded his repertoire.

“Dr. Fisher has been more than a teacher; he’s been a mentor and a true friend. Learning from him has been invaluable,” Orta said.

Fisher, who was instrumental in bringing Orta to OHIO, reminisces on the journey of tutoring and advising Orta these past years.

“It has been a joy to have Alejandro, a gifted young musician who is committed to achieving the highest levels of artistry,” Fisher said. “He has achieved many accolades including first prize in the 2024 New Albany Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition and first prize in the 2021 Graves/OhioMTA Young Artist Competition. Additionally, he performed with the American Pops Orchestra at the Kennedy Center for the Hispanic Heritage Awards, which was televised nationally on PBS.”

Orta expressed gratitude for all “the wonderful people” he's met at OHIO, especially President Lori Stewart Gonzalez. He also said that Breanne Sisler, assistant dean in the Honors Tutorial College, has been particularly supportive during his time as a student.

Orta said his education at Ohio University has transformed him as both a musician and a person. 

“Visiting museums, interacting with diverse artists, and performing in various venues have all contributed to me becoming a more well-rounded and versatile musician,” he said. 

His most impactful moment may have been the nine-minute conversation he had with Dudamel in Los Angeles about strategies to connect young audiences with classical music.

When asked about his most cherished memory at OHIO, Orta found it hard to choose just one.

“Every piano lesson, every studio class, every time I’ve been immersed in the music I play and shared that with my teachers, scholars, and friends—those are the moments I’ll always remember.”

As graduation approaches, Orta is excited about the future.

“I might pursue my master’s degree. I'll go wherever God leads me,” he said.

Orta’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring musicians, especially international students navigating their paths in a foreign land. His advice is simple yet profound:

“What makes us different is not the talents we are born with, but the resilience, perseverance, and hard work we cultivate. Everyone falls sometimes. Get back up and keep fighting for your dreams.”