What is Sistema NB?
Sistema NB is a free daily after-school program that will inspire children to achieve their full potential. Children will learn how to play an instrument and experience the joy of being part of an orchestra. Designed to be fun and engaging, children will develop, learn valuable life skills and at the same time grow musically.
A program of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, Sistema NB is founded on a very simple concept - inspiring excellence through music.
Based on the revolutionary El Sistema (the System) program in Venezuela, the goal of Sistema NB is to inspire children and youth to achieve their full potential and to have a positive impact on their lives and society as a whole. It’s about helping to foster better citizens, while developing talented musicians.
Is Sistema NB just a music class?
Sistema uses music as a means to create social change through enriching the lives of children. As participants of Sistema, in addition to music skills, children can also expect to develop:
- Improved literacy and better overall school grades
- More self-confidence and self-esteem
- A feeling of belonging and worth
- The knowledge of how to work as a team, and how to help others
- A solid foundation for the future
Is any previous musical involvement needed?
No, there is no previous musical experience or training required, just a desire to learn. Everyone is welcome to this free program.
Who can participate?
Any child showing enough enthusiasm and dedication to learn is eligible to join the program.
How much does it cost?
There is no cost for the program --- but there is commitment required.
By the student: To attend everyday, be devoted to the program and try their best.
By the family: To support your child and encourage them to grow to their full potential.
What instruments can children learn to play
The program begins with choral (singing) and rhythm work; and then a ‘paper orchestra’ – children build an instrument they would like to play.
The first year Sistema orchestra will be all string instruments - violin, viola, cello, bass. In future years, all the instruments of an orchestra become an option including:
| Violin | Clarinet | Trumpet | Percussion |
| Viola | Flute | French Horn | |
| Cello | Oboe | Trombone | |
| Double Bass | Bassoon | Tuba |
Do children need to buy and instrument?
No. Musical instruments are provided at no cost and will be kept at the Sistema Center for children to use each day.
Is every student accepted?
As this is a new program, initially space will be limited. The goal is to have a space for every child who wishes to participate.
What else might children be doing?
To help foster a better learning environment, a nutritional snack will be provided as well as games and play areas.
What about transportation?
Every effort will be made to provide free transportation to the Sistema Center and back to the home school.
When is the program?
Sistema NB is an after school program that operates daily throughout the school year.
How can I get more information?
There will be information sessions held at each school where your children can see, hear and touch the instruments and where they will learn about being in the orchestra. And, there will be times scheduled where parents can have all their questions answered.
How do I register my child for Sistema NB?
Registration forms will be provided at the information sessions. Forms may also be available through the school or directly from Sistema NB.
Beaverbrook Sistema Center
Beaverbrook School
1085 Mountain Rd.
Moncton, NB
E1C 2S9
(506) 962-5272
Download the Sistema NB brochure
