Collaborators
Music for Social Change
SONG collaborates with partner networks to bring about positive social change.
Our collaborators inspire us to find new ways that music can change the world.
Through well-embraced teaching approaches, and by supporting evidence-based social practice, SONG brings high-quality music education to kids and youth across Northumberland.
The Music and Health Research Institute
The Music and Health Research Institute explores the interactions between music and health and develops solutions that can improve well-being for individuals and communities.
SONG is proud member of the MHRI. Members support music research innovation, music's role in wellness, and the emerging field of evidence-based applications for music education and music therapy.
Sistema Network Canada (SCN)
The Sistema Canada Network (SCN) is a national organization composed of Sistema inspired programs, including SONG, from across Canada. These members collaborate and get together for meetings to discuss best practices and share resources. Together we celebrate the diversity in the specifics of each Member Program, while sharing our values and committment to music education. SCN currently operates under the administrative partnership of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, a registered charity.
The el Sistema Philosophy
SONG is inspired by the worldwide model for music for social change called El Sistema.
Founded by José Antonio Abreu in 1975, it all began with 11 children in a garage to now over 350,000 participants throughout Venezuela, all receiving free choral and orchestral music training, all with the mission “to help children and young people in achieving their full potential and acquiring values that favour their growth and have a positive impact on their lives in society.”
Social Change
The primary objective is social transformation through the pursuit of musical excellence. One happens through the other and neither is prioritized at the expense of the other.
Ensembles
The focus of el Sistema is the orchestra or choral experience.
Frequency
El Sistema ensembles meet multiple times every week over extended periods.
Accessibility
El Sistema programs are free and are not selective in admission.
Connectivity
Every núcleo is linked at the urban, regional and national levels, forming a cohesive network of services and opportunities for students across the country.
