Friday Inspiration: El Sistema
From the “Venworld” blog:
Venezuelan Music Program ‘El Sistema’ on 60 MinutesA youth music education program in Venezuela known as “El Sistema” (”the system”) was featured on CBS’s 60 Minutes yesterday. The program has taught hundreds of thousands of youngsters — starting at 2 years of age! — in poor areas of Venezuela to play classical music.
Watch the 60 Minutes broadcast.
The government-funded “Sistema” was started in 1975 by José Antonio Abreu. It has produced stars such as the maverick 27 year-old conductor Gustavo Dudamel (known to 60 Minutes viewers as “Gustavo the Great”). Dudamel made his mark conducting the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela, and has been chosen to head the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra beginning in 2009.
My early grade school introduction to classical music & the cello drew me to this story. I continue to enjoy the cello (although I’m constantly frustrated with my level of expertise!) and I really think all of us should have an avocation or hobby that brings us joy & personal pleasure.
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- Paulo Coelho » The classic book 'The Alchemist' was my entrée to the world of Paulo Coehlo. Then, through Google Alerts, Paulo reached out to me to thank me for giving his book to my audiences. Now, we plan to collaborate on projects that inspire the world.
- Brand Autopsy » "The Brand Autopsy Marketing Practice helps businesses to a live happier, healthier, and more remarkable life by serving as their Primary Care Marketing Physician, conducting Marketing Physicals, and or providing Second Opinions. That’s right … think of the Brand Autopsy Marketing Practice like you do your primary care doctor." John Moore is the 'Marketing Medic' and brains behind Brand Autopsy. I met him through 800-CEO-Read.
- KaBoom! » “KaBOOM! is a national non-profit organization that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America...We rally communities to achieve better public policy, funding and public awareness for increased play opportunities nationwide; provide resources, including trainings, challenge grants, and publications for communities that wish to plan a new playspace on their own; and bring together children, business and community interests for a select number of community playspace builds each year.”
- Mitch Joel » "Marketing Magazine dubbed him the, “Rock Star of Digital Marketing” and in 2006 he was named one of the most influential authorities on Blog Marketing in the world. Mitch Joel is President of Twist Image – an award-winning Digital Marketing agency. He is a marketing and communications visionary, interactive expert, community leader, Blogger and Podcaster." Mitch and I met at a North American marketing event where we both spoke and have since developed great respect for each other's work.
- Fast Company » My favorite magazine.
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