What I Learned in Barquisimeto

July 11

After Caracas it was interesting to be in a smaller, yet still large, city.  I found tremendous excitement about music of any kind.  Dancing and music is basic in the culture.  Everyone is proud of Gustavo Dudamel.  

The resources I saw at the Emilio Sojo nucleo were impressive although sometimes less than basic.   Although instruments aren't very high quality and the rooms not the best for rehearsals; noisy, crowded, cluttered with lots of broken down equipment, the enthusiasm for playing and being a part of El Sistema overwhelms all the difficulties.  The teachers are inspired, dedicated veterans of the program who talked to their students about the power of music and what an important thing they were involved in.  The problems in the country are there but the power of music and the dedication of the staff make them seem minor.  

Between rehearsals:  Kids are kids! (and there is an ever-present security guard!)