Jose Antonio Abreu started EL SISTEMA in 1975 “with 11 youngsters and 25 music stands.” It has grown into a global phenomenon increasingly recognized as one of the most successful and innovative music education programs ever created. The core idea consists of the formation of community-based youth orchestras by providing free instruments and tuition to children living in dangerous, poverty-stricken areas and children with disabilities.
The amazingly compelling success stories of EL SISTEMA’s students clearly demonstrate the life-changing effects that high-quality music education and exposure to classical music can provide.
Abreu’s original program now supports 285,000 children, 15,000 music educators, and more than 300 youth orchestras and choirs, leading to an increase from only 2 professional orchestras in his native Venezuela in 1975 to 30 professional orchestras today.
EL SISTEMA now figures prominently in music education initiatives both here and abroad. It indicates how vision and dedication can create a brighter future for even the most disadvantaged youth.
Click HERE to access FESNOJIV’s web site [in Spanish].
For the WIKIPEDIA entry, please click here.
