"To play and to fight" is the motto of the Venezuelan National System of Children and Youth Orchestras. It was founded 30 years ago by Maestro José Antonio Abreu who believes in nothing less that the transformation of his nation through the power of music. He is the philosopher-king-conductor of Venezuela–a man of deep conviction, an eloquent speaker, and an inspiring teacher. For him, the orchestra is the metaphor for life: coming together as a community to create beauty, and opportunity for the next generation.
It's an inclusive program with a quarter of a million young people participating, including the blind, deaf, mentally, and physically challenged. The deaf kids participate in a miming choir–expressing the music through their facial expressions and gestures of their white gloved hands. Proudly wearing their distinctive track suits in the colors of the Venezuelan flag, the best and brightest play in the travelling orchestra which tours the great concert halls of the world.
All the participants are true believers in Abreu and his philosophy. His success has attracted the attention of prominent guest artists include Claudio Abbado, Sir Simon Rattle, and Placido Domingo. Rattle is extensively interviewed, and is enthusiastic in his praise for the program.
While the content of the film is inspiring, the film is marred by its technical failings. The fuzzy quality of the video in general, and the even worse quality of some of its historic footage makes for eye squinting viewing. The soundtrack is AM radio quality with both mono sound and restricted frequency response detracting from the performances.
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