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The Power of Art at the University of Cauca: Transforming Lives and Building Peace
"The University of Cauca is, above all, a University for Peace," states Agreement 105 of 1993 for an important reason: at this academic institution, we have been committed for decades to the pursuit of peace, which is why there is a strong emphasis on art as a mechanism to mitigate the violence experienced in the territories. For this reason, we highlight the work of Maestro Carlos René Ordóñez Mora, who, at the helm of the Symphonic Band of our Alma Mater, has truly contributed to touching thousands of hearts through art, transforming lives and making dreams come true.
At the University of Cauca, every student, professor, graduate, and staff member is like a musical note that forms a symphony of knowledge, wisdom, and experiences which, in their entirety, shape this institution that becomes a second home. Through music, as a universal language, wounds are healed, stories are rebuilt, and deep emotions are expressed that, otherwise, would remain silent. For this reason, this institution has focused on creating spaces for encounters through music, aiming to generate unity and awareness of the urgent need to build alternatives to war.
In this context, the work of Maestro Carlos René Ordóñez, leading the Symphonic Band, is essential. With love and dedication, he drives this project that transforms lives and realities. Thus, various artistic expressions, along with projects, events, collaborations, and research, play a crucial role in our Alma Mater’s commitment to building peace.
Today, through this text, we invite you to learn a little more about Maestro Carlos René, who, originally from La Cruz (Nariño), began his musical journey at the age of 8, forming Colombian music ensembles. Later, recognizing his youthful talents, he decided to study at our University, graduating in 1999 with a degree in Music Education, with a distinguished thesis—impressive, right? He then continued his studies at the Fundación Universitaria Juan N. Corpas in Bogotá, obtaining a specialization in Orchestra Conducting in 2005, once again with honors. In 2018, he received his Master's degree in Music from the University of Cauca. He has composed nearly forty works that express his love for Colombia and his vision of hope.
Since 2005, he has been a professor at our Faculty of Arts and has directed the University’s Symphonic Band, which has performed on important national and international stages. Our Maestro Carlos René has received numerous accolades, such as the Bicentennial Medal and the title of Eminent Professor. He has also served as a judge in national competitions and as a guest conductor of renowned bands and orchestras in Colombia.
"Living the University as a student, as a graduate, as a teacher, and as an administrative staff member has allowed me to feel the importance of the educational process, passionately enjoy music, and feel the energy when we sing the anthem of the University of Cauca, watching those blue and red stripes wave that represent us, have represented us, and will continue to champion the future of our region," said Professor Carlos René, reflecting emotionally on his journey through the Alma Mater of Cauca. A journey that serves as a tangible example for the students who, semester after semester, are training to become professionals in various fields of knowledge, yet share the same conviction: to contribute to building a fairer and more equitable society.
Written by: Communications Management Center