Skip to Content
EPIC Music - Featured Image

REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER 2023 CAMPS NOW OPEN

EPIC Music is a program of Catamount Arts, in partnership with the St. Johnsbury School, Northeast Kingdom Community Orchestra, and Northeast Kingdom Classical Series. It is inspired by the global El Sistema movement. The 2022-23 EPIC Music faculty includes Jason Bergman, Artistic Director, Marshall Meade and Roy MacNeil.

Information on programming for the 2022-23 school year is at the bottom of this page.

WHAT IS EL SISTEMA?

In 1975, economist and composer Dr. José Antonio Abreu created a music program in Venezuela that was transformational for children living in poverty. El Sistema (The System) has inspired similar programs throughout the world, each creating remarkable social change and producing extraordinary student musicians. The programs are open to any child with the enthusiasm and commitment to learn. Programs offer free or low cost instruments, intense musical instruction, and significant experience working in ensembles. The two most important aspects of El Sistema-style programs are inclusivity for all students, and joy in making music.

Learn more about El Sistema here: https://www.elsistemausa.org/

El Sistema USA is a documentary in process which highlights the El Sistema-inspired program Play on Philly!

This video show an exuberant performance by the original El Sistema youth ensemble, Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, a former El Sistema student:

 

In this video, Maestro Abreu explains the importance of equitable access to high-quality music education.

EPIC Music 2022-23

New students and those with less than 6 months of violin instruction will meet on Monday afternoons for Violin Ensemble, and will join the Orchestra on Thursday afternoons when they reach a certain level of mastery. Families wishing to register for the 2022-23 season should contact Anne Campbell at acampbell@catamountarts.org.

Current Orchestra members will rehearse on Thursdays at Union Baptist Church and will have private lessons and small ensemble rehearsals on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday (to be arranged with each family).

We also expect to have occasional Saturday music gatherings with other local strings students, and regular public performances and casual “informances”.

2022-23 Schedule

  • Mondays, 3:30-5:00pm at St. Johnsbury School: Violin Ensemble for new students and those with less than 6 months of violin instruction
  • Tuesday afternoons, time TBA at Union Baptist Church – private lessons and small ensembles for Orchestra members
  • Wednesdays, 3:30-5:00pm at St. Johnsbury School – private lessons and small ensembles for Orchestra members
  • Thursdays, 3:30-5:00 at Union Baptist Church – Orchestra rehearsal

Sign up for EPIC Music HERE.

Current students:

Here is a link to our 2021-2022 music: recordings, scores, and individual parts for Go Tell Aunt Rhody, May Song, Allegro, and Angeline the Baker.  

More EPIC Music:

Epic Music Resources

Please refer to our website for any current COVID-19 related restrictions.