In 1975, Simon Bolivar, an entrepreneur and visionary in Venezuela, created a unique social welfare system rescuing poverty-striken children from the slums. The program is exceptional and has produced amazing results.
The system revolves around classical music. At age 2 years kids are taught basic rhythms and the language of music. By the time they are 4 they learn to play an instrument. At age 6-7 years they are ready to play in an orchestra.
Today, there are more than 300,000 children in the system performing in 176 orchestras for children, 216 orchestras for young adults and another 400 groups of choirs, smaller ensembles and specialist orchestras. Since 1975 more than 800,000 children have passed through the system.
So, what is the relevance to Israel in this spectacular achievement? Lets look at the issues. Israel is respected world-wide as the country of entrepreneurs. We cannot ignore the plight and dreadful conditions under which some parts of our society live. JobShuk is the leading entrepreneural organization in the country.
Yes, but we don’t have a population of some 27 million like Venezuela. Granted, but we don’t need to aim at these astronomical figures. Anybody can operate at an appropriate level.
We don’t know anything much about classical music. Nonsense, there are more than 25,000 practising musicians in the country and over 100 concerts every month. What is lacking is the enterpreneural factor. Most classical music groups are too staid in their marketing practices.
So, where to start? I suggest you subscribe to my newsletter. It’s a weekly publication with interesting information and comments about classical music in Israel. It’s available free of charge to registered subscribers. Send me your name and e-mail address and I’ll post you a copy of a back issue. You can subscribe on the newsletter.
Of the hundreds of classical music groups in Israel including orchestras, choirs and smaller groups I could only locate about 25 websites. There’s certainly scope for business opportunities out there. Go for it!
Lloyd Masel