The Southbank Centre has announced closer ties with London-based Sistema England programme, In Harmony Lambeth. Launched in 2009, the Lambeth project is one of six national programmes inspired by Venezuela’s El Sistema, which use music as a means of benefitting the lives of children and the local community by building self confidence, skills and discipline.

The Southbank Centre will host In Harmony Lambeth initiatives on site while continuing to host Venezuela’s El Sistema orchestras and choirs when they visit the UK. In the future the new Festival Wing will play a large role in housing In Harmony activities; the planned Glass Pavilion has been designed with the intention of providing additional space for workshops, and greater access for young people to attend open rehearsals by professional orchestras.

‘At Southbank Centre we believe that the El Sistema-inspired programmes across the world truly change people’s lives,’ said the venue’s artistic director Jude Kelly.  ‘What we are creating here, and will be developing further with the Festival Wing, is a place dedicated to giving those children and young people who have limited opportunities and resources the chance to discover wonderful music within a world class space, develop their skills, realise their aspirations and encourage future talent. When creative education is constrained by diminishing budgets it’s imperative that we ensure the next generation are not barred from having the chance to fulfil their real potential through rich artistic expression.’

The Southbank Centre most recently hosted a Nucleo Weekend from June 28 to 30, inspired by the Venezuelan local community music centres where music lessons are given free to children regardless of their ability and circumstances. In Harmony Lambeth is jointly funded by the Department for Education, Arts Council England and Southbank Centre.