The power of music to bring people together and inspire positive change is at the heart of El Sistema Greece’s mission. In the aftermath of the tragedy of the train crash in Tempe, which claimed the lives of many people, the Young Leaders of El Sistema Greece wanted to express their solidarity and share their feelings. Through this article and the video they created, we give the floor to our students, who feel the need to speak out on an issue that affects their communities and the society as a whole. By expressing their feelings, the Young Leaders of El Sistema Greece aim to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of the train crash and express their deep sorrow for the people lost and the families affected. Through El Sistema Greece’s music education program, the Young Leaders have learned the value of community building, especially in challenging times like this in the aftermath of this tragedy.
Hasan, Veronica, Amalia, Alessio and Irini are some of the Young Leaders of El Sistema Greece who have been deeply affected by the tragic train crash that happened in Greece. The tragedy in Tempe reminds us of the importance of solidarity in difficult times. Below you can find their own words:
“Insecurity, unreliability and a huge feeling of wonderment are what have been overwhelming me lately. Emotional balance has been lost.”
“Fear in me and anxiety gripped me and with what happened my heart broke.”
“Disappointment , grief are the emotions after a loss. I wonder about tomorrow, what will happen.”
“Fear and anger are some of the emotions I feel these days. Why did this accident happen? Who is responsible for this? Couldn’t it have been avoided? How? Who can guarantee my safety after this? These and many more are questions that remain unanswered when they should not. My questions grow more and more every day.”
“The event could not but cause unpleasant feelings to anyone who wishes to be considered human. I wish to be considered human.”
Through their musical education and their commitment to social change, the Young Leaders of El Sistema Greece have demonstrated their dedication to building a more equal society. As we continue to live with the consequences of this tragedy every day, those children’s examples are a source of strength and hope. We will continue to tirelessly support their commitment to building a more equal and united society, where empathy and solidarity are the driving forces of progress. In our own musical community we work together every day to create a brighter future for all. El Sistema Greece’s Young Leaders symphony of solidarity is addressed to all of us, reminding us of the power of music and the importance of standing next to each other in difficult times.
The music for the video below was written and performed by Veronica and Aeneas, cello musicians in the El Sistema Greece Youth Orchestra and members of the Young Leaders Program of El Sistema Greece.
