by Gabriella Ibarra
Maestro José Antonio Abreu, the founder of El Sistema and a lover of brass instruments, created the National System of Brass Ensembles in Venezuela, bringing life and prominence to Venezuelan musical training through this invaluable project. The Brass and Percussion Ensemble "José Félix Ribas" was founded in 2008 and conducted by Maestro Carmelo Cacioppo in the city of Maracay—following the formation of the regional orchestra "José Félix Ribas," conducted by Maestro Christian Vásquez, in the state of Aragua.
The Ensemble was created with the purpose of unifying the technical, musical, and artistic criteria of all brass and percussion players in Aragua in order to achieve performance excellence on stage. This ensemble is part of the training programs belonging to the National System of Youth and Children's Orchestras and Choirs in Aragua which contributes to the transformation of the participants through music as a life experience.
The level of commitment which overcomes the current difficult socio-economic conditions in Venezuela is remarkable; therefore, the fulfillment of the organization’s mission has incalculable value. Their motto, "Play, Sing, and Fight!" has become a true lifestyle.
Among the invited directors, it is worth mentioning the ongoing participation of German Maestro Thomas Clamor and of the young Venezuelan director Ángel Caldera. It is also important to mention the participation of the JFR Ensemble in a concert with one of the most recognized ensembles in Venezuela, the Venezuela Horn Ensemble, from which many of the players who today have gained international recognition have emerged.
The JFR ensemble is made up of children and young people between 13 and 15 years old, and it also has the support of teachers and former members of its early generations. Currently, the ensemble has a total of 38 members. They have recently performed in important halls of the capital city as well as in the Maracay Opera House, and soon they will perform a concert in the Fedora Alemán Concert Hall in Caracas and embark on a national tour as well.
