El Sistema: Transforming Lives Through Music Education
In 1975, in the heart of Venezuela, Maestro Jose Abreu initiated a groundbreaking program that would not only shape the lives of countless individuals but also revolutionize the approach to music education. This program, known as El Sistema, was designed to give kids a safe haven off of the streets, by providing them with the opportunity to learn music, play instruments, and cultivate their minds in multidisciplinary ways.
The magic of El Sistema lies in its commitment to making music education accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints. Recognizing the impact of music on cognitive development, the Venezuelan government stepped in to fund the program, covering the costs of instruments, labour, and administration. This meant that interested students could participate in music education without any financial burden, allowing them to stay engaged in positive activities, particularly in that critical after-school period.
"Why music?" you might wonder. In Venezuela, music is woven into the fabric of our culture, and its significance is emphasized from an early age. Learning music not only taps into the rich Latin American musical heritage but also offers countless of benefits for learning and development. The act of reading music activates the same area in the brain as learning a new language. Furthermore, playing an instrument, including voice, triggers reactions in the brain that improve memorization, motor skills, and overall learning.
As someone born and raised in Venezuela, I know firsthand the profound impact of El Sistema. Music is integrated into all aspects of the educational curriculum, with children learning music notes alongside the alphabet. By the age of 8, students are encouraged to choose an instrument and dedicate time after school to practice. The school environment fosters a culture of inspiration, where students regularly showcase their talents in orchestras, choirs, and musical groups.
Every school in Venezuela boasts an orchestra, choir, or musical group, spanning genres from pop to chamber music. There are over 1700 orchestras and 1400 choirs in the country – a testament to the success and widespread adoption of El Sistema. And while every student who participates may not become a professional musician, the impact of El Sistema's success lies in creating well-rounded individuals. The program instills discipline, drive, emotional intelligence, and creativity in its participants, setting them up for future success in whatever field they may choose.
El Sistema shows the transformative power of music education. By providing an inclusive and accessible platform for children to engage with music, Venezuela has enriched its cultural landscape and continues to instill a deep appreciation for the arts in future generations. El Sistema continues to inspire educators and communities worldwide, including here in Calgary with the PhilKids program at the Calgary Phil, showcasing the potential of music to shape lives and communities for the better.
Sonny Carmona is the marketing + sales specialist at Calgary Philharmonic. Through her work she uplifts programs that align with the philosophy of El Sistema including Education Concert: Orchestral Wonders of the World which is conducted by Andrés González who was trained through the renowned social and musical program in Venezuela, El Sistema. You can learn more about this program and Philkids here.
