Founded in 1983, the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra – Filarmed aims to drive transformation through music by democratizing access to the symphonic experience for all audiences in the metropolitan area. With an innovative approach and a deep connection to local communities, Filarmed brings music to theaters, parks, churches, and other open spaces in Medellín and municipalities across the Aburrá Valley, promoting the enjoyment of genres ranging from traditional orchestral repertoire to symphonic versions of popular music.
Awarded a Latin Grammy in 2021 for the album Tu Rockcito Filarmónico, the Classical:NEXT Innovation Award in 2022, and the Kennedy Center’s LEAD® Award in 2024, the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra stands out as a pioneering and replicable management model that places music at the service of vulnerable communities. Its work includes programs dedicated to people with disabilities, ex-combatants, victims, and displaced individuals, thus reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and reconciliation in Colombia.
The orchestra has embarked on an ambitious plan to become a Latin American benchmark, blending classical works with symphonic collaborations alongside artists such as Lang Lang, Martin Grubinger, Pedro Aznar, Omara Portuondo, Gilberto Santa Rosa, the band No Te Va Gustar, and other emerging talents from the region. The Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra is also recognized for its ability to develop products and services for companies and foundations, and it has attracted the interest of international cooperation partners. Its management model has been adopted in several cities within and beyond Colombia and continues to expand as an example of how culture can be a driver of social and economic change.
Standing before the orchestra, the conductor is the catalyst who transforms individual talent into an unforgettable collective voice. Meet the maestros who, with their deep knowledge, artistic sensitivity, and inspiring leadership, interpret great works and shape the unique character of the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra. Their baton not only sets the tempo—it draws the emotional map of each piece, inviting both musicians and audiences on an unparalleled sonic journey.
Renowned for her artistic depth, humanistic approach, and international presence.
Chilean conductor committed to music education and training young musicians.
He founded the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra in 1983 and served as its conductor until 2013.
They are the resonant heart of the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra. Meet the virtuoso musicians who, with their dedication, discipline, and extraordinary talent, bring our essence to life. Coming from diverse schools and cities, their unity on stage creates the magic our audience enjoys at every concert.
For the music to shine, perfect orchestration is needed behind the scenes. This is the team that coordinates, manages, and communicates the Orchestra’s work. Their efforts in production, development, administration, and communications are the essential mechanism that brings our artistic and social programming to life.
As a private non-profit organization committed to a mission of social transformation, Filarmed establishes policies that ensure transparency in all its actions.
In this way, it moves forward in achieving its vision: to consolidate its artistic excellence, increase national recognition, and maintain financial and administrative sustainability.
The Artistic Committee of the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra is a permanent body within the organization, responsible for advising the Executive Director on the Orchestra’s artistic matters. It is tasked with suggesting programs, conductors, and soloists, as well as addressing the artistic performance of each orchestra member for evaluation by the Administration.
The Artistic Committee is composed of the Principal or Assistant Conductor, the Concertmaster, a musician delegated by the Orchestra, and the Executive Director. The person in charge of the Corporation’s Artistic Programming Department will be a permanent invitee. The committee will meet regularly once a month.
Note: The delegates from the Orchestra and the Executive Direction will serve a term of one year.
Committee Functions:
• Propose guest conductors and soloists for the Corporation’s annual seasons.
• Provide feedback on the performance of guest soloists and conductors.
• Notify the Executive Director about the artistic and disciplinary performance of the Orchestra’s musicians.
• Advise the Executive Director on the design, implementation, and launch of new educational and community outreach programs.
The assembly of corporate members elects a seven-member Board of Directors every two years. These highly qualified professionals voluntarily contribute their expertise and guide the administration to help the orchestra fulfill its mission.
Ana Cristina Abad
Juan Antonio Cuellar
Diego Mantilla Ortiz
Carlos Eduardo Mesa
Ricardo Jaramillo Mejía
Juan Sebastián Jaramillo S.
Cecilia María Vélez W
As a private non-profit organization committed to a mission of social transformation, Filarmed establishes policies that ensure transparency in all its actions. In this way, it moves forward in fulfilling its vision: to consolidate its artistic excellence, increase its national recognition, and remain financially and administratively sustainable.
Trust is the foundation of our pact with society. As a Non-Profit Entity (ESAL), we operate under a strict corporate governance model that ensures ethical, efficient, and transparent management. Here you can access the statutes and documents that govern our actions and reaffirm our commitment to Medellín.
Español
