#Japan #Tokyo #El Sistema #2024年度

El Sistema Japan Unveils Its Annual Report for 2024

El Sistema Japan, a non-profit organization located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently published its Annual Report for 2024. This report encompasses the activities and accomplishments from April 2024 to March 2025, showcasing the organization's commitment to providing free music education to children in need.

Founded in March 2012 in response to the devastating Great East Japan Earthquake, El Sistema Japan aims to foster resilience and self-esteem in children through music. This initiative initially targeted areas affected by the disaster but has since expanded to include children with disabilities and those living in child welfare facilities across the country. The growth of this reach has been made possible through the generous support of people both domestically and internationally.

In the 2024 fiscal year, El Sistema Japan has been able to support approximately 2,400 children through three main support pillars: direct assistance via children’s orchestras and choirs, school-based support (including extracurricular activities, music class assistance, and expert dispatch), and comprehensive support involving the purchase, repair, and free lending of instruments. The report highlights major events, including annual sponsored concerts in Soma, Otsuchi, Komagane, and Maizuru, as well as collaborations with children’s homes in Kanagawa and Tokyo for the “String Ribbon Project.”

The report features numerous photographs capturing the dedication and hard work of the children as they engage in their music practices. Additionally, it provides a financial overview detailing the contributions received and highlights the various ways in which supporters can contribute to the children’s activities.

The design of the report was once again entrusted to Ichiro Funakoshi from Funaco Design Studio, who has been instrumental in developing El Sistema Japan’s branding since its inception, including the design of the organization's logo, website, and promotional materials for various concerts.

Looking ahead to the 2025 fiscal year, El Sistema Japan has exciting plans. Children will have the chance to perform at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, welcome guests from the Canadian El Sistema organization, and engage in opportunities that promote international exchange, offering children experiences that transcend borders through music.

El Sistema has its roots in Venezuela, where it began in 1975 as a response to social issues such as poverty and insecurity, aiming to provide children with a nurturing environment through music education. Today, El Sistema’s philosophy has found a presence in over 70 countries and regions worldwide.

In Japan, the program's mission has evolved to empower children affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake by allowing them to regain their confidence and dignity through musical experiences. The initiative has expanded its reach to various regions, including Soma in Fukushima, Otsuchi in Iwate, Komagane in Nagano, and subsequently to Osaka and Maizuru in Kyoto, marking a significant impact over the last decade.

Since April 2023, El Sistema Japan has collaborated with the volunteer group “String Ribbon” to conduct violin classes in children's homes. The overarching priority remains the accessibility of music for all children, regardless of personal circumstances, fostering environments where they can learn through collective orchestras and choruses. El Sistema Japan emphasizes its vision of a society where everyone can thrive freely and creatively.

In recognition of its contributions, El Sistema Japan received the 2022 Japan Foundation Globe Citizen Award, further solidifying its role as a vital force in community building through music.

We eagerly anticipate the ongoing efforts and future activities of El Sistema Japan, and we encourage everyone to lend their understanding and support in this noble endeavor.

For more details, visit: El Sistema Japan Annual Report 2024