“I wish you would help 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.”

Jose' Abreu has just been named one of three TED PRIZE winners for 2009. The music program he began in Venezuela over 30 years ago has helped to bridge gaps between children of the poor and elite. Talented young musicians representing a variety of races and educational backgrounds come from both rural and urban areas to participate in his extraordinary school. Read below.....

"After Maestro Abreu gave his inspiring talk and made is world-changing wish, the Teresa Carreño Youth Orchestra performed live via satellite from Caracas, Venezuela. Made up of students from El Sistema, the orchestra wowed the TED audience and we know they will wow you too. Led by Gustavo Dudamel, Music Director Designate of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and product of El Sistema, the orchestra played two pieces - Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10, 2nd movement and Arturo Márquez’ Danzón No. 2."

After seeing this tremendous performance, Jose' Abreu's words seem all the more true: "Once a child learns to play an instrument, that child will never be poor again."