EL SISTEMA - THE SYSTEM
El Sistema is firmly grounded in philosophical, psychological, and sociological theory and research, all of which contribute to its success.
The philosophical frameworks of Paulo Freire and Lev Vygotsky guide its dual emphasis on comprehensive education of the individual and the collective nature of learning. Psychological theories on self-efficacy, scaffolding, modeling, and initiative development inform its teaching methodologies, connecting how learning music follows a similar trajectory to advancing in other arenas of life.
El Sistema’s sociological roots reach far beyond the role of arts and music. The partnership between teachers, musicians, politicians, community leaders, families, and the public is also aimed at creating social change.
In Venezuela, 60% of the children in El Sistema programs were at risk of dropping out of school, were already outside of the educational system, or were victims of family violence or social neglect. Through its Social Action Center and numerous supporting institutions, El Sistema has improved the lives of marginalized young people throughout Venezuela (Sanchez, 2007).
“Let us reveal to our children the beauty of music, and music shall reveal to our children the beauty of life.”
—José Antonio Abreu, Founder of El Sistema
Over three decades ago, one man in Venezuela dreamed of a better world for children living in poverty.
“Give children musical instruments and they will never carry a gun: teach them to play classical orchestra music and they will learn how to live a meaningful life.“
- Dr. José Antonio Abreu
CARACAS, VENEZUELA
In a concrete parking garage in 1974, Dr. Abreu gathered 11 children and taught them to play classical music. Over the next 40 years, his orchestra became a vast organization of choirs and ensembles with the purpose of social change.
Many nuclei orchestras now teach ensemble music to 300,000 of Venezuela’s poorest children, demonstrating how family-school-community partnerships in the arts can positively change the lives of a nation’s youth and the communities to which they belong.
Donate today to help YOSAL continue the work of El Sistema in Monterey County.
We are a proud member of El Sistema USA | A National Alliance of El Sistema-Inspired Programs.