[BenLurkin]

“It may be an autocracy but it’s one that has allowed thousands of people to flourish,” said Marcus.

No thanks.

[PGR88]

portrays it as a "model of tyranny" where brutal, marathon practice sessions mirror the apparently unlimited power and top-down style,,,

They clearly have never had a Russian or Chinese piano teacher.

[Captain Rhino]

Take a listen to the finished product:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcAGFgPCigw

The Youth Orchestra of Caracas playing Bacchanale from Saint Saens “Samson and Delilah.” Very famous piece.

Director Dietrich Paredes is considered one to the better young conductors in the world today.

[robowombat]

This reads like the high school marching band mystep-daughter was in. The little weasel that was the band director used the endless sacrifice of the students to leverage himself into getting to be the marching band director at William and Mary. What was amazing was the parents who supported this crazy regime of endless non-stop practices as virtual marching band groupies.

[randita]

"But once in Venezuela he said he was overwhelmed by tales from current and former musicians of top-level corruption, favoritism and improper sexual relations between teachers and pupils."

Nothing new. These shenanigans go on in U.S. orchestras as well.