In the slums of Venezuela, thousands of children have a new life, thanks to an unlikely teacher – classical music.
El Sistema (the System) has tackled poverty among Venezuela’s poorest children by teaching them to play the instruments of an orchestra. In the process, these children – who may have otherwise gone down the drugs and drink route – are now part of one of the world’s greatest youth orchestras – the Simón Bolivar Youth Orchestra.
The success of the El Sistema has been duplicated in many countries. Venezuela itself has hundreds of centres all over the country. Other Latin American countries have come on board, determined to use this simple, but effective method to give their children a reason to grow up and lead a life of dignity, joy and empowerment.
Our dream is to re-create El Sistema in India. Millions of children grow up without the opportunity to go beyond their circumstances. Child’s Play hopes to give some of them a way out.
Music lights up our lives; may it happen for them too.
About Child’s Play India Foundation
Music is more than just learning notes. Learning an instrument or playing in an orchestra teaches children discipline, self-esteem, team work and provides potential employment opportunities through the practice and perfection of a musical instrument.
Founded in 2009, Child’s Play (India) Foundation is a registered not-for-profit trust that seeks to instil positive values and provide social empowerment to India’s disadvantaged children through the teaching of classical music to the highest possible standard. We currently teach violin, viola, cello, recorder, flute and choir to over 120 children across four locations in Goa.
Objectives
“Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens, noble human beings.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki
- To introduce western classical music to underprivileged and street children in India,
- To provide, through music education, a sense of discipline, self-esteem and possible career opportunities for deprived youngsters,
- To mentor and encourage all children to reach their maximum potential,
- To encourage excellence and creativity,
- To engage the local music community in developing the talent of children who are not part of the mainstream
For more information, please contact us at info at childsplayindia.org.
Child's Play (India) Foundation 