Sistema England extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of José Antonio Abreu, visionary founder of the National System of Orchestras and Youth and Children’s Choirs of Venezuela, known worldwide as El Sistema. Thanks to his incredible global legacy, Sistema-inspired programmes in England engage thousands of children and their communities through music.
‘It is impossible to overestimate the extraordinary achievements of José Abreu who was a Titan in the world of music education. By drawing on the power of music, he saved many children from poverty and crime’. Julian Lloyd Webber, Founder of Sistema England and Principal of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
We wish to express our support and appreciation for our friends and colleagues in the Sistema community worldwide who truly want social change, who have no doubts about the potential of all young people, who demonstrate great spirit of generosity and altruism and who champion music and the arts as fundamental human rights. Tocar y Luchar - ‘To Play and To Struggle’.
“José Abreu, the man whose dream changed the destiny of millions, may your legacy live on and thrive forever”. Simi Ambass, Cellist, Sistema England Young Leader
Photos: (Above) José Abreu with Julian Lloyd Webber in 2008 as In Harmony is launched in England, (below) Sistema England Young Leaders (photo credit: Ivan Gonzalez)
