El Sistema USA

El Sistema USA® is a membership organization. Our mission is to nurture and support the efforts of all #ElSistema-inspired programs within the United States. We do this by providing continuing education, mentorships, resources, and more. But what is El Sistema? For many the story of El Sistema in the United States began with a wish. In 2009 Dr. José Abreu was awarded the TED Prize for his wish to "create and document a special training program for at least 50 gifted young musicians, passionate for their art and for social justice, and dedicated to developing El Sistema in the US and in other countries". Since then the idea has moved throughout the nation and the world. Awareness of El Sistema and its dedication to rigorous, artistic ensemble playing as a vehicle for social change captured the attention of those interested in working with young people living in impoverished and sometimes dangerous situations.