What does SO DO do?
SO DO or the Sustav Orkestara Djece i Omladine [System of Orchestras for Children and Young People] was established to implement a musical programme of social development which educates children & young people through orchestral music and according to the philosophy, methodology and principles of El Sistema. The aim of this project is to encourage the humanitarian, social, emotional, spiritual and intellectual development of young people through music.
In the social groups, such as orchestras and choirs, which emerge within musical environments, the children at SO DO can learn about social interaction, solidarity, teamwork, discipline, concentration, self-respect and the ability to work with others. All this helps to broaden their minds and to divert their attention away from the dangers and temptations of modern society.
The children's orchestras enable children who would not otherwise encounter classical music to experience and to develop a love and understanding for it. These orchestras also provide micro-worlds within which children learn about multiple aspects of life. Through their participation in SO DO, these children experience collective creation and mutual support and thus develop respect for others and a sense of belonging. Making music in a group also promotes inspiration, imagination and an appreciation for beauty, and subsequently enriches the spiritual development of every young person, regardless of his or her later affinities or choice of profession.
Instead of being left to their own devices, the children engaged in SO DO spend their free time learning music and developing themselves in a spiritually and intellectually constructive direction. As such, they gain the opportunity to positively focus their potentials, talents and time by communicating and socialising with their peers and other age groups.
Whether or not they ultimately choose a different calling, SO DO strives to develop a society of culturally and musically educated young people. It believes that culture builds both character and personality and that this ensures that all those who have been educated in this way will grow up to positively contribute to society.
From the point of view of professional musicianship, SO DO also develops a culture of collective music-making to an international standard which is otherwise lacking in Croatia.
Participation in SO DO’s El Sistema programmes is free and available to all who wish to get involved.
Click here to find out more about SO DO, El Sistema Croatia