Venezuela Celebrates 50 Years of the National System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras and Choirs with New Projects and Recognitions

In his speech, President Maduro emphasized that this program, founded five decades ago by the maestro José Antonio Abreu, has been a “cultural and musical revolution” that has transcended Venezuelan borders. Feb 12, 2025 Photo: VTV

February 12, 2025 Hour: 5:38 pm

Additionally, he announced the creation of the José Antonio Abreu University of Music of Venezuela, an institution aimed at continuing the training of musicians of international caliber. “This university will be a legacy for future generations and a tribute to maestro Abreu, who dedicated his life to music and youth,” expressed the president.

The President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, led the celebrations this Thursday for the 50th Anniversary of the National System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras and Choirs of Venezuela, a cultural and educational program that has transformed the lives of millions of young people and has brought the country’s name to the international stage.

In his speech, President Maduro emphasized that this program, founded five decades ago by the maestro José Antonio Abreu, has been a “cultural and musical revolution” that has transcended Venezuelan borders. “Today, we celebrate 50 years of a dream that has become a reality, a system that has reached 1 million 269 thousand children and young people across the country,” stated the head of state.

During the event, held at the Teresa Carreño Theater in Caracas, the president highlighted the achievements of this initiative and announced significant projects for its future.

As part of the celebrations, President Maduro inaugurated the Expo Fair of the National System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras and Choirs, a space showcasing the achievements and history of the program.

For his part, the president of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodríguez, proposed that Venezuelan youth participate in the drafting and development of the Organic Law of Venezuelan Youth “José Félix Ribas”, which will include proposals presented by young people to the parliament. “We want the voice of youth to be present in this law, for it to be an instrument for their development and future,” Rodríguez stated.

The National System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras and Choirs of Venezuela, internationally known as “El Sistema”, has been recognized as a model of social inclusion through music. Since its creation in 1975, it has trained thousands of musicians and has inspired similar programs in over 70 countries.

With the creation of the University of Music and the continuation of training programs, Venezuela reaffirms its commitment to culture and education, solidifying a legacy that has left its mark on the world.