I want to share with you a wonderful videoclip of an orchestra born out of one of the most amazing movements for social change developed over the last three decades: El Sistema.  Founded in 1975 by the Venezuelian musician, Jose Antonio Abreu,  El Sistema’s goal is to use music for the protection of children through training, rehabilitation and prevention of criminal behaviour.  The program is known for rescuing young people in extremely impoverished circumstances from the environment of drug abuse and crime into which they would likely otherwise be drawn.  Children are provided free tuition and instruments, but just as importantly, encouragement and role models to show how a life devoted to art can change themselves and the world.  As the children grow older and progress in their musical technique, they move from one group, one orchestra, to another, culminating in the Teresa Carreño Youth Orchestra, the national high-school-age youth orchestra of El Sistema, made up of the best young musicians from throughout Venezuela.  Various television documentaries have been made about this incredible movement — and it really is a movement rather than just a “program” — but this videoclip shows them in action.  The orchestra is here led by Gustavo Dudamel, himself a graduate of El Sistema.  They play Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10, 2nd movement, and Arturo Márquez’ Danzón No. 2.  Just look at these kids!

PS Remember my radio interview plays on Tuesday, 17 March at 7 pm.  Don’t worry, I’ll remind you again on Monday — you can’t get away that easy….