Sistema Europe wishes to express its deep sorrow at the passing of Maestro José Antonio Abreu, Founding Director of the National System of Orchestras and Youth and Children's Choirs of Venezuela, known throughout the world as El Sistema. José Antonio Abreu was, and remains, an incomparable inspiration to millions of children and young people across the globe. Maestro Abreu was a constant and ardent proponent of peace and in deepest gratitude we send our heartfelt condolences to his family.
In the words of Gustavo Dudamel, Music Director of the El Sistema project in Venezuela:
The music and arts have lost one of their brightest figures. Maestro José Antonio Abreu taught us that art is a universal right and that inspiration and beauty irreversibly transform the soul of a child and make them a better, healthier and happier human being, and, in turn, a better citizen ... we will continue to play music, sing and struggle for the world that Maestro Abreu dreamed of and for the future [of the] legacy that he has left us.